Issue 142 | NOV 2010 | mag.bent.

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craig revel horwood // stephen hoo // bullying // benidorm

 Photo: Diva Fever by Syco

events
Essential -
For The Night of Your Life!
One of the exciting things
about The Gay Village is you
just never know what's going
to happen from one week to the
next! The latest bit of gossip on
everyone’s lips is the news that
Simon Cowell is sending every
X- Factor finalist to perform at
Essential as a favour to old friend
Nigel Martin-Smith owner of
Manchester’s biggest gay club.
The re-launch of Essential a few
weeks ago was a massive success
with clubbers coming from across
the UK packing in to experience
the magic once more! Apart from
moving The Pop Lounge downstairs
and putting the dance deejays
upstairs in The Studio, not a lot has
changed at the club but that seemed
to suit the crowd just fine.
wisely brought in new blood with
the likes of deejays Mark Tillotson,
Andy Daniels and local girl Little
Miss Natalie, who will be joined by
Essential legends Aphrodite and
Alan Stevens. Another cool move
is that the club are now bringing in
more name DJs like Graeme Park,
David Dunne and Ibiza’s Joshua
Roberts.
Meanwhile, downstairs in The
Main Arena - DJ Nicksy will be
whipping up the party crowd in
The Pop Lounge and the buzz in
The Gay Village about Essentials
latest X-Factor exclusive is huge.
Every week one of the stars of the
X-Factor show will perform live on
stage and then sign autographs.
Last week when Nicolo performed
the place was full to capacity!

A couple who had driven up from
Brighton summed up the general
mood when they said "We are so
glad that Essential has reopened
and is busy again - Manchester
without Essential was just not the
same place!”
Entering the Back Door The Studio is the perfect space for
dance music and Essential have
It’s good to see Essential back so
spectacularly - check out Fridays
at the club too - their new night -
Generation X - is rockin! All these
clubbers at Essential have made
Mornin Glory after hours at Queer
even busier so that's now open til
12 noon on Sunday. We think that's
what they call a win, win situation.

Mardi Gras of the North is delighted to welcome

Backdoor Disco to its world class dance
club line-up for its Christmas sleepover party
weekend at the Mardi Gras Village, Pontins,
Southport December 3rd – 6th.
Heralded as one of the North’s best clubbing
experiences Backdoor Disco has achieved cult
status with savvy partygoers and trendsetters.
Playing cutting edge pop and commercial house
Backdoor Disco will set the Mardi Gras Village’s
Hellfire Club alight on Saturday night, December
3rd from 9.00pm till late. The club will compliment
its ‘big brother’ Federation, in the adjacent Dance
Factory.
For clubbers who want to keep the music and the
action going the much-loved Manchester based
Freakshow will take over the Hellfire for the after
party between 5.00am and 11.00am on Sunday
morning.
Mardi Gras of the North will host a star-studded
drag show on Saturday evening headlined by The
Dame Edna Experience followed by a spectacular
Glee Tribute Show. The weekend opens on Friday
with the spectacular SuperMartXe and closes with
London’s most popular club, Salvation playing
through the night on Sunday.
Tickets for this spectacular weekend Christmas
party are available on line at www.pridelife.co.uk/
mardigras or by calling the hotline on 08448153629
Photos: Tilllate.com
The best night out
you'll ever have - and
that's guaranteed!
Leeds First Friday (LFF) is definitely
the event to be seen at for any
respectable (and unrespectable)
Tgirl. LFF is held on the first Friday
of every month and is now
THE northern monthly FREE event
attracting over 100 girls, admirers,
friends and family to Leeds from all
over the UK. It is now the biggest
monthly transgender event outside
of London (apart from BNO). The
event starts in Blaydes bar and then
moves across to Fibre were we
exclusively have the VIP directors
lounge and bar. This area is used as
a chill out room but then there’s the
1st floor, which is the 'party area',
for those who like to shake their
thang! Then onto the Loft @ Queens
court for more drinks and dancing.
Both Fibre and the Loft have kindly
discounted drink prices for anyone
attending the LFF event and there
are no admission charges for tgirls.
LFF welcomes everyone and we're
told that it is one of the friendliest
and most enjoyable events in the
country. LFF is becoming more
popular each month (the last event
over 120 people attended). For
December 2010 we are planning a
Fetish and Formal Christmas ball
with lots of frolics! Discounts on
hotels and restaurants are available
as well as makeovers (by MAC and
NARS). Queens Court have kindly
offered use of their facilities for girls
to change and get ready for the
night ahead. This information and
more can be found on the website or
call 07805 104252. Come and join
us, the event is open to all - you will
not regret it!! leedsfirstfriday.co.uk

shock pop stars / Page 32
popstars / Page 35
Editor’s Words
A couple of things have caught my
eye this month… one of which was an
interesting piece I saw in the Costa
Del Sol Euro Weekly, Spain’s largest
Free local newspaper in English.
Controversial and out Torremolinos
businessman Javier Checa wants a
Universal Gay State and thinks his
hometown could quite easily be its
centre point. The aim is to make a
universal nation of the 55 million gay
customers in the world, and in doing so,
become the fifth worldwide economic
power. Checa claims that the creation
of such a ‘Gay State’ would look out for
the rights of an oppressed population.
(www.euroweeklynews.com)
This man may be a nutter, an eccentric,
a self publicist… I don’t know but,
and this is a huge but, what a brilliant
idea. Can you imagine such a concept
working? If all the gay people of the
world snuggled together under the
one banner and made things happen.
Changed world perception, forced
governments to replace or scrap laws
that are both prejudiced and unequal
- flexing muscle that any gym bunny
would be proud of in the interest of
every gay person in the world. The
prospect is mouth-watering in its
extreme but fraught with obvious
problems, even so, I couldn’t help
4 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
myself getting just a wee bit excited
that someone had even suggested
such an enterprise.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the
coin, I was searching through some of
those lovely internet newsgroups and
came across one that I was surprised
to see. It said: The purpose of this
group is to connect with other Bi/
Gay men who are like minded and
committed to staying in the closet. I’m
not sure why it had never occurred to
me before that there is probably a huge
number of people who have absolutely
no interest in anything gay… other
than being gay themselves. They don’t
see it as anyone’s business but their
own; they’re not interested in gay
bars or clubs or to be seen on Pride
marches or such events. In other
words… they want to remain discreet…
perhaps keeping their secret just
that… a secret. Of course we can bang
on about the injustices of the world
and rights that need to be gained and
wrongs that need to be challenged but I
was taken with the thought of a support
group for those who want nothing more
than NOT be part of all things gay…
and the associated pressures that
can bring. (groups.yahoo.com/group/
ClosetShutM2M/?yguid=289591678)
stephen hoo
Page 37
So, it may well be nigh on impossible
for Javier Checa to see his dream
fulfilled, however, we are fighting to
gain rights for people to be who they
are – I suppose that includes the rights
of those who don’t want to be told what
they are.
Hugs, Gordon
NOVEMBER 2010
ISSUE 142
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bites
A work in Progress
The new Take That single The Flood is a
brilliant piece of pomp-pop at its best. Robbie
takes the lead and the rest of the lads fill the
chorus with their superb harmony, making a
shiver run down the spine as the orchestra
takes the song onto a higher plateau. If this
is a taster of what the rest of their new album
‘Progress’ is going to be like, I can see that
Take That, with Robbie back in the side, are
going to have many other acts worrying about
their own record sales.

Single: The Flood released 15th November

Album: Progress released 22nd November on
Polydor

Fit for a Queen ( of pop )

With the rumour that Madonna is moving back to the UK,
if she can get her visa sorted and reports that Lady Gaga
wants to buy a castle here, isn’t it time that HRH Elizabeth
II got rid of a couple of her palaces and castles to these
regal pretenders. Recently, the papers made a big thing
about Lizzy wanting more money from the public purse
to keep her palaces fit for a Queen but let’s face it, in this
day and age, Her Maj should leave it to Madge and her
Ladyship to carry the cost… because they’re worth it!

M4 Musicals
A new internet magazine has recently been launched
completely dedicated to musical theatre… now
not only can the London crowd ogle the capital’s
theatrical megastars, so can we, from the comfort of
our own computers.

M is the title of the magazine and is the brainchild of

Christopher D Glegg who says:

"M. is a very exciting project for me. Being in the

'new generation' or 'brat pack' of theatre, I have often
wondered why there isn't a magazine that would
appeal to people like myself.  The Stage, which is
such a well established publication, is full of great
news and articles, jobs and adverts, but no exciting
photo-shoots or editorials on the stars of theatre
Gay X change today, or the new cabaret scene emerging, or one-off
shows. M. is going to cover all those, and more. We
 Gayxchange one of the leaders in chat like to think of it as the "VOGUE" of Musical Theatre.
lines for gay guys has released their new It's going to be high-fashion, beautiful, glossy and
app on an expectant public; with real fun. We are going to be a bit cheeky and have a
time text and picture messaging, this has laugh. In bringing this new generation of theatre out
more great features than the competition, in our magazine, we will also be careful not to forget
over 5000 guys have downloaded it so the past and the classic shows that ran in the years
far and as it’s UK based and there are a before us. We want everyone to enjoy M.” 
lot more hot guys near you, you can also
logon to our website where you can chat The debut issue of M has a hot photoshoot with Jack
to our thousands of web based users at Jefferson (former Mr Gay UK contestant) now from
www.chattube.com the cast of the Phantom of the Opera sequel, Love
Never Dies. Now that alone should get a few people
logging on.

www.m-isfor.co.uk

6 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

bites
Competition
Stylishly designed and easy to use,
the new Olympus WS range of voice
recorders offer crisp and clear sound
quality in any environment, perfect for
meetings and personal notes. Users
can easily adjust the settings for the
best possible audio; the Low Cut
Filter is ideal for situations with lots
of background noise, while a Voice
Filter setting sifts out high and low
frequencies, to emphasise the mid-
range human voice.
The WS-760M benefits from an Auto
Recording feature, which is great
for longer recording sessions. It
automatically starts to record when
noise levels exceed a given threshold
and pause when the source volume is
8 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
Gay Icons
Project
The University of Sheffield is
delighted to announce the Gay
Icons Project, a series of events
to celebrate and explore the
contrasting ideas behind what
constitutes to being a Gay Icon.  community. I hope it may be seen
These events include talks,
concerts and films from some of
the UK’s leading figures in Fashion,
Literature, Stage, Socioeconomics
and Music.  their creative output regardless
The Gay Icons Project will bring
together people living or dead,
whatever their sexual orientation
or interests, who are regarded as
inspirational, especially significant
in their creative output or prominent
figures in contemporary culture
and society.  These include Peter
Tatchell, Jackie Kay, Alexander
McQueen, Quentin Crisp, Andy
Warhol, Anne Lister, Oscar Wilde,
Benjamin Britten, Andre Gide and
Joe Orton.   and musical comedy stars of a bygone era,
Stewart Campbell Gay Icons
Project Director said “It’s important
Blue plaque
Acclaimed actor and film star
Sir Ian McKellen has unveiled
a blue plaque honouring
gay rights and human rights
campaigner Peter Tatchell.
The plaque, erected on Mr
Tatchell's block of flats in south
London, reads:
"Peter Tatchell. Born 1952.
Campaigner for human rights, gay
freedom and social justice. Lived
here. Voted by the people."
Speaking after the unveiling and
his acceptance speech, Peter
Tatchell later told the media:
"I'm grateful but somewhat
embarrassed. My contribution is
very small. Compared to many
others, I am a minnow.”
Southwark borough council, which
weak, to save on battery life and cut
down on unwanted audio recordings.
Great for the daily commute, the
WS-760M can also playback MP3 and
WMA music files and offer ultra-high
quality PCM (WAV) recordings and
playback.
£139.99 - Slimline, lightweight (51g)
and ultra portable - Available from
Dixons -, Currys megastores &
Amazon
COMPETITION TIME
To be in with a chance to win one of
these recording wonders all you have
to do is answer this simple question: In
which European country is Mount
Olympus?
to say that the Gay Icons project
is not solely aimed at the LGBT
as an introduction to historical gay
culture for a non gay audience. 
All the icons selected for the
programme are revolutionary in
of their sexuality.  I’m thrilled that
the University can stage a project
such as this; it’s an opportunity to
celebrate culture and diversity and
Recovering
some fascinating human beings. 
There is a varied programme of
exciting and engaging events for
Showgirl
Hitch a dazzling roller-coaster ride with ex-
everybody to enjoy.”  Las Vegas showgirl Miss Hope Springs on
These events will run from Tuesday her journey from The Ritz to the pits in Miss
23rd November to Saturday 11th Hope Springs… Recovering Showgirl – the
December.    five-star, sold-out hit of the Brighton Festival
www.gayiconsproject.co.uk Fringe.  From the tradition of torch singers
Miss Springs is the creation of composer
and lyricist Ty Jeffries, son of late stage and
screen legend Lionel Jeffries. Classically
trained at the Purcell School of Music,
one-time Jean Paul Gaultier model Ty spent
much of his childhood in Tinseltown and
organised and sponsored the
blue plaque, issued the following
statement: "For 43 years, Peter
rubbed shoulders with the likes of Shirley
MacLaine, Shelly Winters, Diana Dors and
Frank Sinatra, once tapping down Sunset
has spearheaded campaigns for
Boulevard with Fred Astaire.
gay rights and human rights in
 His real life experiences bring authenticity
Britain and across the globe. In
to his portrayal. “I love exploring what
1983 he was the defeated Labour
made these stars tick and am fascinated
candidate in the Bermondsey by-
by the darker stories behind those glittering
election - the dirtiest, most violent
facades. Ageing soubrette Hope is my
election in Britain in the twentieth
tribute to that golden era.”
century. He co-founded OutRage!
Tour dates to follow but catch her when
in 1990 and he twice attempted
you can.
a citizen's arrest of President
 
Mugabe of Zimbabwe on charges
The Drill Hall,
of human rights abuses.”
16 Chenies Street,
Tatchell reassured the crowd of London WC1E 7EX
supporters who had gathered 3 - 6 November
for this prestigious event. "It's myspace.com/misshopesprings
very rare for living people to be
honoured in this way. You normally
only get a blue plaque when you're
dead. I'm still very much alive and
I plan to carry on campaigning for
another 30 years.”  
Retro inspired Swatch
Ten trendy models in understated, yet bold
Win
colours introduce a new, much bigger Swatch
watch inspired by the legendary Swatch Gent
Originals.. Each model has a large, vibrant
This!
plastic case with a contrasting colour-coded
dial, a day/date window at 3 o’clock and
rugged, matt silicone straps in complementary
monochrome colours.
Turn to page 62
for details £42. The collection comes in 10
fashionable colours. www.swatch.co.uk
MAG.BENT.COM
bites
How to take it up
the bum!
There’s plenty of very worthy
information about sexual health helpful
if you have just come out as a gay
man or think you might be gay? In
fact the Internet is awash with advice
about safe sex, sexually transmitted
diseases, HIV and aids, but there is
very little about actually enjoying your
sex life as a gay man.
Whilst sexual health is a very important
subject and organisations like The
Terrence Higgins Trust and the NHS do
an excellent job, the bedroom should
also be a FUN place to be a GAY man.
GILES the SEX therapist – a better
Saltire Thistle
sex guide for men is a brand new
series of audio Podcasts/Downloads . 
The brainchild of Giles Dee-Shapland
who is a trained Integrative Hypno-
Analytical psychotherapist.
Giles says: “Sex is fun but a lot of men,
when they first come out are very
in-experienced in the bedroom, I am
not promising that I will turn you into a
great lover but I might be able to help
you have great sex along the way.”
The first six Podcasts are available
on several platforms and with the first
one about how a guy can learn to take
it… seems like not many subjects are
going to be taboo.
www.gilesthesextherapist.com and
can be subscribed to on iTunes and
YouTube via the site.
Sheffield Doc Fest
Now in its 17th year Sheffield Doc/Fest is
the UK's premiere documentary film event. It
is the place to see world and UK premieres
of the best creative documentaries from
the cinema, television and online arenas,
and to hear from and meet filmmakers
at Q&A sessions. Highlights of the film
programme, which last year featured over
120 features and shorts, are honoured with
an award programme including the Sheffield
Special Jury, Innovation, Green, Youth Jury,
Inspiration, Student Doc and Audience
Awards. 2010 is an especially exciting year
for Doc/Fest as the festival will be opened
by the world renowned comedienne Joan
Rivers, who will celebrate the UK premiere
of her new documentary /Joan Rivers, A
Piece of Work/ at Doc/Fest
All films are open to the public and a limited
number of free standby tickets are available
to students and senior citizens (excluding
opening night). Some industry sessions and
masterclasses will also be available to the
public.

beat Hotscots Sheffield Doc/Fest 3-7 November

http://sheffdocfest.com

in Scottish gay
The Eight: Friendly derby.
Reindeer Glasgow’s Saltire Thistle may

Monologues
It’s a comedy by the American
prize winning writer. Jeff Goode,
which takes a hard look at
scandals and ‘cover-ups’’, such
as child abuse hidden by the
Catholic Church, ‘innocents’ such
as Christine Keeler being made
a scapegoat by the people in
power or, in this case, Santa being
accused of sexual harassment by
one of the reindeer.  Performed
as a series of 8 monologues,
each reindeer has an agenda
and a history – Cupid is gay and
keeping clear of Santa, Hollywood
(the reindeer formerly known as
Prancer) worries about the impact
on his film career and there are
hints of a lesbian affair. Will they
dish the dirt?
only have been playing full
matches for 3months, but
this didn’t stop them beating
Edinburgh counterparts Hotscots
FC 3-1 on Saturday in the GFSN
cup, Northern Group fixture.
Manager and co-founder Colin
Sinclair is looking forward to visiting
Edinburgh Hotscots won the
the team that stand in the way of
competition in 2009 and went into
Saltire Thistle and a date in the semi
the match as favourites. However
finals, Village Manchester.
Saltire Thistle, upset the form book
with a fantastic team performance
“Obviously I enjoyed the result on
and are now just one game away
Saturday and cannot praise the
from the semi final of this UK-wide
players enough for how well they
competition. Glasgow’s gay-friendly
have come together as a team in
team, a mix of gay, straight and
such a short time. However I’m
bi-sexual players are awaiting their
now fully focussed on the next
next challenge.
game against Manchester. We’ve
Ross McClung, Saltire Thistle given ourselves a great chance of
chairman and co-founder was progression, and don’t want to throw
delighted with the result. “It was it away at the final hurdle.”
a very good game and both sides
Mark Samson got the Glasgow side
have to take credit for that. We hope
in front with a first half penalty, while

Above the Stag Theatre

15 Bressenden Place,
London SW1E 5DD
Dates: 1st – 27th November
Box Office: 020 8932 4747
www.abovethestag.com  that gay people can’t play football.
and www.the8.co.uk
everyone watching really enjoyed
the game, and obviously we’re
pleased we sent our supporters
Scott Kelly scored straight from a
corner kick in the second half. Ross
Luke what’s in
McGinty killed the game off with an Taking inspiration from all the people that
home happy with the victory. It’s
acrobatic effort with a few minutes surround him, Luke's designer menswear
important that gay-friendly sides play
to go while Hotscots got a late fashion range has all the components of
good football to provide a powerful
consolation goal. the modern lad, edgy, sexy, fashionable… a
argument against homophobia. For
too long the perception has been gentleman, a working class hero & a bit of a
www.saltirethistlefc.com rogue.
On what I saw today, I thought
that argument was well and truly £70 - Beech hot pink knit and scarf
answered.” £85 - Dwain Piper Raw jean
www.luke1977.com

10 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

 FITNESS
Do you have
Saggy Tits?
Not to worry! Usually" saggy tits" or  “man
boobs” can be easily controlled with some
weight management techniques, including
exercise. There is no such thing as “spot”
training for one specific body part. I get
asked all the time, “How do I focus on this
or that?” My response is always to treat
your body as a whole, both inside and
out. Some of these simple suggestions
will help reduce the extra weight all over,
including the chest. It’s best to start with
a good cardio programme to help burn
enough calories to lose some weight. If
you aren’t currently doing any cardio, start
a regimen of 20 to 30 minutes of exercise
three times a week. Add time and intensity
as you get stronger—always make it a
challenge. You can also change the shape
of the musculature of your chest by doing
a well-rounded routine of weight lifting
and muscle conditioning. A good place to
start is dumbbell bench presses, dumbbell
incline bench flys and dumbbell decline
bench presses. These three exercises will
target the muscles of the pectoral group
to help you build lean muscle, which will in
turn use more calories daily and help with
that weight management. A win-win! 

Goodluck!
www.jarrettjames.co.uk

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12 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

bites
McFly
Long gone are the days when we
would watch the floppy-haired pop
group McFly and wonder if they were
really playing their own instruments.
With 7 UK Number One singles and 5
Top Ten albums, plus numerous sell-
out tours, the cute lads from London
have proved they are a pop force to be
reckoned with.
Their latest single, Shine A Light, is
quite a sophisticated affair written by
the band themselves and Taio Cruz
and it continues the boys’ musical
about-turn, tapping into an entirely
new, electronic sound, which has
taken both the industry and McFly
aficionados by surprise.
One Direction
The X Factor is never far from either
the TV or the newspapers these days
but the programme has thrown up
so very interesting new faces. We
are putting our money on Simon’s
boyband One Direction who are just
14
If the rest of their new album lives up
to the complete, stylish sound of the
single then we just can’t wait.
Shine A Light out 7th November
Island Records
so damn cute. The boys have been
out and about enjoying themselves
and one can only love the fact that
the lads don’t mind getting stripped
down and showing off their undies…
well one of them at least.
Photos: Simon Harris - SYCO
W H A T S
M A NC H E S T E R
O N
Where do you starting from £1 Sunday to Thursday and
from £1.90 other nights makes it a an
want to be? experience that's not going to bankrupt
you.
Sitting at the corner of Manchester's Gay
Village is the place everyone seems to Cruz quality: the best sound system,
end up at every night. Cruz 101 is one of the best lighting system, music variety
the oldest gay clubs in the country along and drinks all in an exciting environment
with city favourites such as Flamingos, complemented by the highest standards
the Nightingale & G-A-Y - each the of customer care.
destination for their city and there's a
reason why: Each of these offer great Cruz 101 : where do you want to be?
nights, great prices and make their
customers their friends.
Cruz great night: every night's great
at Cruz with something for everyone
from disco on Mondays to trashy pop &
students on Thursdays; with everything
building up to an intense clubbing
experience on a Saturday when Cruz
hosts ExpertsInPop - the best 4 of
Manchester's pop DJs on weekly
rotation, spectacular decor, a brilliant
lighting system, and an attitude free
party . The clue is definitely in the name
- these guys definitely know their music.
Sub Sessions hosted by Darren Leasley
on Fridays and Little Miss Natalie on
Saturdays for those who want it a little
bit harder. This is most certainly the
place to go for a slice of exuberant gay
nightlife.
Cruz great prices: only £1 admission
from Sunday to Wednesday and
£2 before 12 on a Saturday; drinks
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM
 bites
Notts holding
hands
Nottingham Pride Committee is
organising a Same Sex Hand Holding
event (Sshh) on Saturday 27th
November at Noon in by centre of
Nottingham on the old Market Square
by the Brian Clough statue. So much
has been achieved recently towards
equality and diversity but people of
the same sex showing affection by
just holding hands is perhaps one
of the last few taboos left. Many
gay people, women and men often
feel either very uncomfortable or
even scared to hold hands with their
partner in public
The Sshh event aims to inspire and
support people who want to hold
hands with someone of the same sex
in public. Everyone should feel free
and safe to hold hands with someone
they care about in public.
Same sex couples are being invited
to contact Nottingham Pride and
register to take part in the event
and make Saturday 27th November
the Sshh Saturday for Nottingham.
Couples will be invited to get
sponsorship from fiends, family and
colleagues to show their support
and help raise money towards the
Nottingham Pride event 2011.
www.nottinghamshirepride.co.uk
www.adayinhand.com
Play your part?
Greater Manchester Police Authority
(GMPA) was established in 1995 to
make sure the Greater Manchester
Police (GMP) force is accountable
to the people living and working in
Greater Manchester, and that the
public can have their say in how the
area is policed.
The Authority:
• Sets policing priorities and monitors
the performance of GMP
• Appoints the Chief Constable and the
Chief Officer team which includes the
Deputy Chief Constable and a team
of Assistant Chief Constables and
Assistant Chief Officers (the latter are
civilians and not police officers)
• Monitors the handling of complaints
against the police
• Consults with the people of Greater
Manchester to identify their policing
priorities and makes sure that their
council tax money is spent effectively
• Sets the budget and council tax
contributions (precept) to policing
GMPA Members are decision makers.
They are supported by a team of staff
who provide them with the information
they need to make the best decisions
possible. Staff look at new legislation
to make sure GMPA is in line with the
law, they develop policies, undertake
consultation, analyse and scrutinise
aspects of policing and support the
Members in their work.
If you think you have what it takes to
play a part in this important work take
a look at the advert opposite and see if
you have what it takes to…
play your part.

Sheffield Doc Fest including the Sheffield Special Jury,

Innovation, Green, Youth Jury,
Inspiration, Student Doc and Audience
Now in its 17th year Sheffield Doc/ Awards.

Competition
Fest is the UK's premiere documentary All films are open to the public and a
film event. It is the place to see world limited number of free standby tickets
and UK premieres of the best creative are available to students and senior
documentaries from the cinema,
television and online arenas, and to
hear from and meet filmmakers at
citizens (excluding opening night). Some
industry sessions and masterclasses will A new range of gay
Q&A sessions. Highlights of the film
programme, which last year featured
also be available to the public.

Sheffield Doc/Fest 3-7 November

over 120 features and shorts, are
honoured with an award programme
http://sheffdocfest.com
erotic fiction
Following the success of its recent
homo-erotic ebooks, theXcitebooks
will be publishing Boy Fun, its first
print collection of all gay erotic short
stories. Boy Fun is the first in a series
of gay-themed books which features
20 steamy short stories from some
of the best erotic writers in the UK,

CROSS-ARTS AND US and Australia and will be followed

by three more titles in 2011. The

CROSS-LONDON availability of the titles as ebook

downloads will also be appreciated
by many readers who enjoy the
Gaywise FESTival, 'London's LGBT
discreet and immediate delivery of

Win
and queer cross - art festival for all', has
this format.
announced an exciting and ambitious
established gay talent. £7.99 also available to download as
2010 programme. The festival focuses

on three categories covering Short
Films, Visual Arts and Performances.
Complementing the programme are a
series of talks, debate and parties. It
has been seen as hugely successful art
event where thousands of Londoners
and festival visitors enjoy and benefit
from the showcase of emerging and
This!
The festival will take place across ebook, price £6.49
London in prestigious venues including www.xcitebooks.com
The National Gallery, Victoria and Albert
Museum, Rich Mix, Hampstead Town To be in with a chance of winning a print copy of Turn to p
Boy Fun, just answer this simple question: age 62
Hall and Cochrane Theatre. for detail
GFEST 2010 runs for two weeks from How many short stories are included in this s
collection?
8th -21st November.
www.gaywisefestival.org.uk

16 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM


Thanks to everyone who’s been downloading my monthly podcast (over
20,000 in the past 2 weeks alone!). Simply search for ‘Jason Guy’ in iTunes or
download directly from www.jasonguy.podomatic.com. And keep an eye on
www.clubfreakshow.com, as rumour is Manchester’s most popluar gay house
night is about to announce something cool very soon! As usual, if you’d like to
see your track, club, or event featured in Bent, contact me at jason@bent.com.
TOP
1. TRACKS TRACK REVIEW
OF THE MONTH
By Jason Guy
Track of the month
My Digital Enemy Feat
Mooli – Wasted (2010
Mixes)
First released back in 2008, ‘Wasted’ received
2.
high acclaim from the likes of Eric Morillo
and Chris Lake and was immediately signed
to Universal’s AATW division. Two year's later
and the Brighton duo (Sergei Hall and Keiron
McTernan) are bringing the track back with a
vengeance with a set of 2010 mixes. My tip is
to head straight for the Big Room Vocal Mix,
which does exactly what it says on the tin.
Huge piano stabs, a tribal/progressive feel
and a gorgeous vocal which includes my
favourite lyrics of the moment... “Wasted but
you can't even see.”
Marc JB vs Peyton - Keep
Believin (Sainted Music)
3. Internationally acclaimed music producer,
Marc JB has teamed up with the inimitable
Peyton on this new vocal anthem. With a
massive baseline and a killer uplifting piano
riff (reminiscent of Coldcut’s 'People Hold
On' anthem, this track has already become
a staple ingredient in my sets. The stand out
mix for me is from hot new Dutch producer
Van Hej (who hails from the same town as
Tiesto) which delivers a huge chunky house
/ trance crossover, similar in style to Michael
Woods. Perfect for those big room moments.
Sharam Jey Ft Tommie
4. Sunshine – The Things (King
Kong)
The Things is the newest single from Sharam
Jey’s second full-length artist album In My
Blood and sees him collaborate with NY
based Tommie Sunshine (fresh from working
with Kelis). There's a great set of remixes on
this release, including a New Rave House Mix
from house veteran Junior Sanchez and my
favourite, a tough, deep, atmospheric mix
from Funkerman who knows exactly how to
craft the perfect breakdown.
Martin Solveig &
5. Dragonette – Hello (3Beat)
Martin Solveig, who produced one of my
favourite ever tracks (Rockin' Music) is back.
‘Hello’ is a funky, driving number, doused
with chunky bass riffs, hypnotic grooving
synths, skipping percussion and vocal hooks.
The superb remix package includes offerings
from Bassjackers, Dada Life and a sublime
re-work from Michael Woods who brings a
driving, underground feel to the dancefloor.
Check out the cool video for this on Youtube
that manages to make tennis (yes, tennis!)
exciting!
18
bites
Tensnake
Love it or loath it the 90s
influence is filtering through…
especially in dance music,
slowly replacing the retro-disco
sounds with early house beats.
German producer Tensnake
is leading the way in the 90s
revival, while riding the wave
of hysteria that surrounds his
most recent production
‘Coma Cat’.
“I started buying vinyl in the
90s. I was really into deep
house and vocal house. This
was around the time I started
going out, to big raves and
house clubs, so it was the
most important period in my
life, musically wise.”
So, why does Tensnake think
the 90s are now back in is destined to cross over into
vogue? “It’s because music is like the mainstream over the coming
weeks.“I just tried to capture the
fashion. It’s all coming back again
because people hear a certain Summer feeling”, he explains. “I
came back from Miami, feeling
sound and you get excited by
very relaxed. A light, relaxed and
discovering new sounds. It used
to be easier to talk about the 80s. happy feeling. I’m also working
But now people are fed up with on a new album, which I plan on
the 80s!” finishing around March next year.”
Riding high in the club charts for ‘Coma Cat’ it out now on Defected
the past few weeks. ‘Coma Cat’ Records.
Adam Lambert small-minded people prove you
wrong. You have to be strong,
and you have to pay attention to
speaks to gay the positive, and in doing so, you
will push through, and you will
youth on YouTube rise up, and you will live your life
to the fullest. It gets better, but it’s
Out singer Adam Lambert took up to you.”
time out of his busy tour to record
a message of support for gay
kids, teenagers and those who
need reminding that it’s OK to
be gay. He said: “There’s always
gonna be people that are scared
of it. But at the end of the day, if
you give those bullies and those
people that are so ignorant and
fearful of your lifestyle, if you give
them the power to affect you,
you’re letting them win and they
don’t deserve that. What you’re
doing by being who you are is
you’re keeping it real and you’re
being really brave. I believe in
you, I think it’s great. There are
a ton of us out here in this world
that are just like you that believe
in you. You are so much more
than your orientation. You know
it, and I know it. So don’t let those
bullies and those ignorant, fearful,
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM
 vocal
outpourings
Top US DJ/Producer/ which has several styles from mean
Vocalist Roland Clark spoken word to beautiful soul and
beyond, has proliferated throughout
delivers a huge slice of the realm of House Music, but in
dancefloor seduction addition he has also carved himself
with a brand new single a nice slice of house music’s pie
‘Tambor Love’ a deep and with his phenomenal deejaying and
delightfully soulful outing, production skills. His contributions
infuse many artists best works,
dripping with a gorgeous including Armand Van Helden's
vocals. gorgeous "Flowerz’, and working with
such deejays and producers such
Roland is an unstoppable force when as Todd Terry, Kenny Dope, Mark
it comes to his hard work in house Knight, Bad Boy Bill, Meat Katie,
music, boasting a huge catalogue Sandy Rivera, Terry Hunter and
of releases to date. He released his Roger Sanchez, Noir, Souldynamic,
first single in 1987, ‘Why!’ on Atlantic George Morel, Erick Morillo and Bob
Records and has since gone on to Sinclair, just to name a few..
sing, write, and produce many singles
such as ‘I Get Deep’, ‘This Is House’,
’ released ‘Glad You Came’ among many. He
‘Tambor Love
on 1st No ve mber on has appeared on prolific labels such
(US)
Delete Global as Defected, Fluential, King Street,
.com/
www.myspace Soul Heaven, Big Love, Soulfuric,
rolandclark MN2S, T’s Box, InHouse, and Strictly
Rhythm to name a few, with other
new singles forthcoming on Fizzy
Wine and Amore’ labels. Roland
Clark is also featured vocalist on
many Fatboy Slim releases including
‘Halfway Between The Gutter And
The Stars’, ‘What Da Fuck’ and
‘Song For Shelter’. Roland’s voice,

rajiv
Rajiv is truly a unique enjoyed watching the talented Essex
lad blossom and grow into a soon to
talent – Sexy, funky and
be superstar.
utterly gorgeous but don’t
take our word for it, listen He’s got the voice, the personality
to any of his tracks, take a and by god he’s got the looks
to win every female heart in the
look at his lovely pics and
country and his honest and likeable
you’ll see what we mean. character will make him a hit with the
lads too – He’ currently laying down
A unique blend of Mauritian and more tracks with critically acclaimed
Trinidad descent Rajiv has an appeal producer, David Brant who has had
unparallel by many other artists – successes with the likes of Mis-Teeq,
this combination of Caribbean and Liberty X and Nate James.
Asian influences is evident in his
music with influences of both R’n’B
and pop and could be the reason
why BBC’S Asian Network DJ –
Bobby Friction dubbed him as his
‘Future Friction Artist of the Week’
recently.

His debut single ‘Back and Rewind’

(out 1st November) is an infusion
of pop and R&B beats, topped off
by Rajiv’s smooth, heart-felt vocals,
oozing sex appeal and a steaming
hot video to match, this catchy
track is guaranteed to get your toes
tapping in no time. Cool, funky and
undeniably infectious, it’s no wonder
it’s already a massive hit on social
networking sites! The 24year old
already boosts a growing legion of
loyal fans who have supported and

20 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM


by Adam Lowe
HURTS
Stay
// Out: 15th November
---------------------------------------------------
'Stay' is relentlessly addictive, like all
good pop should be. This grand pop
ballad stomps forth in heroic colours
with a backing choir on vocals and
cliché, although suitably dramatic,
lyrics. The chorus definitely sticks in
your head. It's no wonder then that
Hurt are the UK's fastest selling new
band of 2010.
HANNAH
Sanity
// Out: 22nd November
----------------------------------------------------
Estonian singer Hannah has invaded
Britain like an Eastern European
sledgehammer—but she's more
likely to steal the jobs of Americans
like Hilary Duff and Hannah Montana
than she is Amy Winehouse or Adele.
Co-written with Duffy's songwriter
Steve Booker, this is a super-cool pop
record that knows what it is and makes
no qualms about it. With plenty of
clubbing potential, this one is sure to
be a hit with the gays.
SPARK
Revolving
// Out: 15th November
---------------------------------------------------
This 18 year old from Walthamstow has
created a synthed-up electro pop gem
with the trademark Spark vocals. She is
a savvy yet youthfully naïve musician,
whose influences include everything
from the Spice Girls to Shaggy, with as
much appeal to radio listeners as East
London club kids.
KAROSHI
No Sitting
// Out: 29th November
----------------------------------------------------
This exciting debut by Karoshi
combines the production stylings of
Justice or Simian Mobile Disco with
the songwriting and pop skills of
Santogold or Goldfrapp. This is twisted
electro pop at its best, with indie-
electro starlet Jenny Jones on vocals.
ROXANNE EMERY
Real
// Out: 8th November
----------------------------------------------------
Roxanne ditched her career as a high-
flying banker (wise move, we think) to
become a popstar. This is understated,
subtle music with plenty of heart
and pop sass. Look out for her debut
album, Remember Me, next year. Think
Natalie Imbruglia meets the Bangles.
22
W H A T S O N
L E E D S
Photos: Darrell Hirst
Viaduct - Night
of Stars
Make a date in your diaries, 28th
November, for our mega-tribute
night at the Viaduct Showbar, which
will feature at least 5 of the countries
top tribute acts including those
to Robbie and Gary Barlow. Also
featuring local talent in this fabulous
Viaduct showcase. Not only that, but
the incredible Miss Carla Jackson
brings to the Viaduct stage her
brand new solo show, which we
can guarantee will be full of treats
and surprises. The whole event is
hosted by that infamous (and some
would say brilliant) Anna Glypta, the
woman who knows no boundaries.
Recently, The Lady Boys Of
Bangkok paid the venue a visit and
hosted a cocktail party and a live pa.
The crowd was stunned by the tasty
drinks and the even tastier boys
who served the cocktails in their
outfits festooned with multi-coloured
feathers.
There is something on every night
of the week and for those who get
hungry during the day the Viaduct
has a new menu serving from
noon – 8pm.
Don’t forget that Happy Hour lasts
all afternoon and well into the night -
from 1pm-7pm 7 days a week - with
some draught pints from just £1.85
Viaduct Showbar – Lower Briggate – Leeds join our facebook the viaductsahowbar
Leeds Police in LGBT communities to report
crime in the knowledge that there
presence are gay officers wanting to listen
The city’s police LGBT liaison and officer advice. A Facebook site
officers are keen to improve the and advertising in the venues will let
links between themselves and the members of the community know
when and where they can contact
gay community and have come
up with a series of ‘contact points’ the liaison officers.
where those who have cause, can
report homophobic abuse or crime
in a safe environment away from a
police station. At the moment they
are in discussions with gay venues
in the city centre for space to be
allocated (for 2-3 hours) to provide
crime prevention and general
advice/assistance. The location will
alternate but the police think that
homophobic crime is under reported
and believe that this shouldn’t be the
case in the 21st century. Hopefully,
building a link will place confidence
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM
 W H A T S O N
by Adam Lowe
L E E D S
Photo: Darrell Hirst
THE LAYABOUTS
Deep in EN5
// Out: 8th November
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Deep in EN5 is the brand new compilation
of grooved-up dancefloor productions and
remixes to date from North London production
duo The Layabouts. Known as club DJs as well
as producers, The Layabouts present a wide-
ranging collection featuring the likes of Choklate,
DJ Spinna and Robert Owens. With the duo's
enduring reputation for quality deep house
secured, expect more to come from these guys
in future.

AFRIBIZA
The Afro Sound of Ibiza, Vol. 1
// Out: 24th November
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Drag Idol Fund some helpful toys to ensure a good
night in plus other prizes donated
AFRIBIZA is the culmination of a music
development programme started 14 years ago in Raiser by Nice and Naughty. Meanwhile,
South Africa. This album brings together a mix of The frocks and sequins were out over the road at Queen’s Court,
international club circuit stars, iconic pioneers in in force recently at Blayds Bar in Anna Glypta thrilled the audience
the New World Africa collective, and some of the with impersonations of Boy George
hottest and youngest acts to hit Johannesburg Leeds, as a special fund-raiser, for
that campest of camp competitions and other celebs, while her hunky
this season. If you're looking for a taste of African
dance, then this is the album for you. Drag Idol went into overdrive. mail stripper friend performed his
Hosted by the fabulous Ricky Glass act in the window in full view of the
and Co even the cold and breezy passing crowds as well as those
weather didn’t stop the appreciative inside. There will be other such
TOTALLY ENORMOUS EXTINCT crowd enjoying the side show as events leading up to the competition
DINOSAURS the wind exposed more than is itself on the 9th November at the
healthy in any circumstances. There Royal Armouries in Leeds.
Household Goods EP was a camp raffle with the main www.dragidol.co.uk
// Out: 22nd November prize of a giant lube dispenser and
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Sharp bassline adds kinks and furrows to this
otherwise pop record. It reeks of dancefloor Dr Who Quiz Night the Project Coordinator. “Since 2003
melancholy and the spangly cool of mirrorballs, the BLAST Project has worked with
but with the party-starting, fractured insistence to Raise Money for over 260 boys and young men on a
of the best modern house. There are shades of Sexual Exploitation 1-2-1 basis who have been involved
the 80s and often unsure, soft lyrics, which makes in, or at risk of becoming involved
this a masterful dance album at its best. Project in sexual exploitation. Holding a
The BLAST Project is part of fun fundraiser such as this will help
Yorkshire MESMAC Group of
SANDER KLEINENBERG Services and has been providing
5K support to boys and young men
// Out: 29th November involved in, or at risk of becoming
involved in sexual exploitation, since
-------------------------------------------------------------------
2003.
Sander Kleinenberg arrested worldwide attention
about a decade ago with the track 'My Lexicon'. The project has just received a
Since then he's had ample time to put together further two and half years funding
this debut album, and the time and effort and will soon be launching new
shows. 20 years' experience as a career DJ shines services including a drop-in for
through, with elements of dance from the past
couple of decades infused with more modern escorts, a virtual online drop-in and
influences that show a real excitement for the a new advanced training course
genre. Teaming up with Jamie Cullum, Ursula for professionals. To celebrate the
Rucker and Ace Reign, he delivers an album continuation of the project and to
house enthusiasts have been camped outside raise money which will help create
record stores for. sexual exploitation resources we
are organising a fundraiser with a
Dr Who theme in partnership with
Blayds Bar.
FABRICLIVE 54
The Dr Who Quiz Night will be
David Rodigan held on Friday 26th November at to raise awareness of the sexual
// Out: 29th November Blayds Bar and will be hosted by the exploitation of boys and young
------------------------------------------------------------------- fabulous Daisy DuPont. The evening men and also help to raise money
starts at 8pm and includes a Dr vital to creating useful resources in
Fabriclive's latest compilation is mixed by David combating sexual exploitation”.
Rodigan, and includes Augustus Pablo, Big Youth, Who Quiz with prizes for the winning
Bitty McLean, Etana, Romain Virgo and Alborosie. team, music until 1am and those Advance tickets are £5 and £7.50 on
There's a blend of dancehall styles with classic dressed as Dr Who characters will the night. There are only 60 places
dub, top vocals and class DJ music, with a twist be entered into a free prize draw.
of reggae for good measure. Fabriclive rarely available and they are expected to
disappoints, and David Rodigan offers something “Sexual Exploitation is a very fill up fast. To avoid disappointment
you might not have been expected from the serious issue and it is one which is you can get your ticket by contacting
household name. becoming more known and sadly Phil Mitchell on 07921 372896 or
more common” says Phil Mitchell, p.mitchell@mesmac.co.uk

24 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM


Annual 2011
The past year has been massive for
dance music. There’s been an incredible
selection of tracks getting people out
of their recession blues and into the
clubs and festivals. Artists like Example,
David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia
and Dizzee Rascal have all been tearing
up the charts, while others like Katy B
have helped dubstep rocket out of the
underground; the scope of dance has
never been wider. Ministry of Sound has
taken the very cream of this crop and
captured it on 3 incredible CDs. But of
course this is The Annual 2011 which also
looks to the future, so what stellar tracks
can we expect to see shaking speakers in
the coming year?
Out: 1st November
Label: Ministry of Sound
To be in with a chance of winning a
copy of this triple album package, just
answer this simple question:
Which famous record producer joined
Kelly Roland on her hit- Commander?
26
Pure Trance
Anthems 2011
UK super club brand Godskitchen return
with three discs packed full of upfront
trance bangers for the coming year.
Godskitchen Pure Trance Anthems 2011
combines big name new tracks and brand
new remixes of classic anthems in a
heavyweight triple CD package.
Including the biggest tracks direct from
the world's biggest DJ's sets, this is the
uplifting sound of the 2010 - 2011 trance
renaissance. It includes anthems that
have been smashing it all year alongside
ones that are predicted to blow up
big-time in 2011. Out: 11th November –
Label: New State Music
To be in with a chance of winning a
copy of this triple album package, just
answer this simple question:
In which country was DJ Armin van
Buuren born?
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
Win
These!
Turn to page 62
for details
Pop Party 8
This has been the biggest year for pop, and what
better way to celebrate then to have one album
that includes 21 chart- topping, speaker busting
hits 2010 has bought us. Pop Party is back for
its 8th instalment and exceeds all expectations.
This fab album is stuffed full of all the hottest pop
hits around and is sure to warm up those winter
blues!
Pop Party 8 features top ten tunes from all
your favourite poptastic acts including the
mischievous N-Dubz ft Bodyrox (We Dance On),
the glamorous ladies in pop -The Saturdays
(Missing You), The King of Pop Justin Bieber (U
Smile) and of course the queen of pop herself;
Lady Gaga (Bad Romance)
If all that wasn’t enough, as well as an additional
DVD of your favourite videos. this years Pop
Party album includes an ‘extras’ section where
you can watch 5 of your favourite pop acts
actually making their videos!! Out Now - Label:
UMTV
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of
this fab CD, just answer this simple question:
Complete the title of this Justin Bieber hit – U
_______?
MAG.BENT.COM
 daaahling...
it's craig revel horwood
Best known for his camp and acerbic approach to the celebrity dancers on BBC1’s
Strictly Come Dancing, Mr Outrageous has another, highly successful side to his
character, that of director and choreographer of some incredible theatre productions.
His list of credits and awards for this work is very impressive so Lee Hudson wanted
to know more and, with barely a paso doble in sight… caught up with the man to chat
about his latest touring production of the musical Chess… Strictly and… his undies.
Why on Earth, of all the musicals available, did you
choose such a deadly dull piece like Chess?
I love the music. I’m of the age, 45, and the 80s meant
a lot to me, I loved Tim Rice and Abba and had only
grown up with the concept album, I’d never seen
a stage production. So, when I became a director/
choreographer 15 years ago then started working with
actor/musicians 5 years ago I thought it would make
a great actor/muso show. I pitched the idea to the
producer, he said let’s go for it and…
I have to congratulate you on the fantastic reviews…
everyone seems to say you have taken it in a new
direction and into new dimension…
That’s only because I’d never seen it so I had
nothing to compare it to. There’s only ever been
one version of it in this country so I did it my way
because I thought chess is really boring and a bit
intellectual.
You seem to have gone for a bit more camp
and humour than was in the original.
I made all the chess-pieces weird and
wonderful, out of this world, sado-
masochistic; people that comment as a
chorus on the action that is taking place. I
suppose it is just me being me.
So it’s you on stage is it?
Noooo not me… just all the things I like
(laughs).
You’ve done loads of things…
including Panto… is that something
you want to do more of?
I’m doing Panto again this year in
Crawley, I’m playing the Wicked
Queen in Snow White and the 7
Dwarfs, which is hilarious. Plus it
gives people the chance to see me in
the flesh and hand out scores for my
dancing…
This is one of the things that must
really get on your tits. You are a really
talented, respected and successful director,
choreographer and have been in the business
for years… so does it piss you off that most
people’s idea of you is that loudmouthed,
opinionated camp guy off the telly?
People think that ‘Strictly’ is all I do for a
living… on a Saturday hold up a ‘2’ and
that drives me nuts because it’s not fair…
(dissolves into giggles). I was 15 years
a dancer in really famous and fabulous
shows, being a director and choreographer
with a deal of success and I believe
integrity… that’s why I’m on the show.
Chess comes to the
Alhambra – Bradford
on 9th – 13th November
To find out where else the
show tours visit:
www.chess-the-musical.co.uk
Main photo: BBC Publicity
Chess photos: Keith Pattison
AstroBoy (copyright)
28 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
Some people say “Has he ever danced before. Can he
dance?” They think I’m there to spout off for no reason
at all. Unbelievable. That’s why I brought the book out
(All Balls and Glitter) so people could see that I have
had a career.
I have to say I was very surprised by the openness and
honesty in the book.
I had to because of the News of the bloody World.
This country… well… one blast and it’s all around the
country and everyone believes it. So, I thought, right,
I’m going to beat them at their own game and bring it
all out in one year… and that’ll show them.
And you did…
Yes, I was a rent boy, yes I was a drag queen… so
what?
You did the New Zealand version of Strictly…
That was for three series but it’s no longer on.
Did you go back as the conquering hero or that British
guy with the funny accent?
That British guy with the funny accent! They were all
horrified to discover I was Australian (laughs)
So you didn’t have to butch it up or anything for them?
Noooo… for god’s sake… butch? I’ve been like this all
my life… with girls or boys.
Now I’ve done some immense research on you for this
interview.
I love you for that.
In an interview you were asked
what brand of underwear you
favour and you said Mitch
Dowd Astro Boy…
Yes… Astro Boy.
I just love the idea of you
sitting in your dinner jacket
and bow tie on ‘Strictly’
delivering your scary verdict
but wearing such fun pants
with the image of Astro Boy all
over them secreted underneath.
Yes, that’s it. I get them at Target in Australia, a sort of
Woolworths type of place… I also have an Astro Boy
style quiff (he giggles at the thought).
Craig is a very busy man and has several productions
on the go at the moment so I had to cut the interview
short and let him get off to his next appointment. As he
disappeared I sneaked a crafty score of “9”. He lost a
point because he didn’t call me daaaahling once.
www.craigrevelhorwood.com
MAG.BENT.COM

Judy & Liza
The 45 year wait is nearly over. Very
soon Judy Garland and her daughter
Liza Minnelli will be back on stage
together as Judy and Liza, presented by
Liverpool’s own Emma Dears.
 
This brand new musical experience charting
the lives of these two extra ordinary women
will feature live performances of all of
your favourite Judy and Liza hits including
Cabaret, Maybe This Time and The Man
That Got Away performed by West End
stars Emma Dears (Mary Magdalene-Jesus
Christ Superstar, Ellen –Miss Saigon) and
THE SUN
Bradford
The scene in the city, although small,
every venue is close to the other, is
nonetheless healthy and booming.
Every Sunday the Sun hosts the opportunity for talented
individuals to become stars. Their ‘Sun’s Got Talent’
contest has each week’s heat winner going through to the
grand final on the 21st November with the chance to win
£200.
Over at Uber and Uber Village, DJs and occasional
cabaret stars keep the place rocking which attracts a
fantastic cross-section of the city’s fun crowd.
Meanwhile, Candy Nightclub continues with its policy
of great sounds, great entertainment all at reasonable
prices. Special events and drinks offers bring in the gay
boys and girls to fill the dancefloor and enjoy a real party
atmosphere.
Barrowman
in Need
Captain Jack himself, John Barrowman, returns to his
home city of Glasgow on 19th November to host a
massive gig at the SECC in aid of Children in Need.
The 4000 seater venue will feature a host of guest stars
including the cast of hit musical We Will Rock You, dance
favourites The Box and Pearl and the Puppets as well as
comics Des Clarke, Fred MacAulay, Daniel Sloss, Mark
Nelson, Craig Hill, Janey Godley and Nina Conti.
Other guests have still to be announced.
As well as hosting the event, John will
be presenting live links to the rest of
the UK as the programme for the
BBC is transmitted and for those
who just love the guys voice you
won’t be disappointed… he’ll also
be performing.
YOU can register now for free
tickets at bbc.co.uk/tickets
Lucy Williamson (We Will Rock You, Fame
and most recently played the lead role of
Mavis in the UK No1 tour of Stepping Out).
The performances will be intertwined with
images of Judy and Liza, whilst Emma,
as Liza and Lucy, playing Judy, tell the
sensational stories of the lives of two of the
world’s most legendary stars of stage and
screen.
 Judy and Liza is a dream that Emma Dears
has had for a number of years. Emma has
created the concept, written the script and
also performs as Liza in the show. Now, her
vision is coming to fruition.
For dates visit: www.judyandliza.com
 terrygeorge
tellin'stories

marks
the spot
Recently, I did something I have never done before. It’s
not that I was scared of doing it… it was just that I had
my doubts about it. In the past it had a bit of a reputation
of not quite being above board, even creating a bit of a
scandal a few years back. Anyway, so impressed was I
with one of the acts on the X-Factor that I decided to bite
the bullet and phone in my vote… twice. Having heard
Matt sing I just thought he was the best and tapped the
vote line number into my I-phone and pressed. Yes, even
with the warning “…from some mobile phones it could
cost considerably more.” I threw caution to the wind and
hoped that my expensive vote would help keep him in
the competition… if not I’m not too sure who to go to for
a refund. Anyway, I think that Matt, whether he wins or
not, should have a superb career in front of him and I’m
backing him to go all the way.

Having said that, Simon has those cute lads One

Direction who I also think will do very well. Alas for them
he is their mentor and so far, compared to the lovely
Cheryl, he hasn’t had much success with his acts. Me, Sisco (centre) and his boyfriend Carl
Does he care? I’m not too sure if a man who owns the
company, owns the record label and seems to sign all
the acts need worry that much about who wins as he’s
got a piece of them already. I quite admire the man and
not just because he’s managed to make a few quid (I
suppose I could ask him for a refund on my vote if Matt
doesn’t work out) but that he saw an opportunity and
has taken it to a worldwide audience. Who would have
thought that, with all their clever TV execs and brash
Hollywood agents, that it would be a British guy who is
now basically running television and the music business
in the USA? So I say - Good for him.

I remember just a few years ago I was on a train to

London chatting to a nice lady who used to work at
Yorkshire Television and knew me from my constant
attempts at getting in front of the camera. She was
telling me that she had left her job and was now taking a
chance on this new project for an independent company.
The project was the X-Factor and her new business
partner was Simon Cowell… I often wonder how it all
went for her.

Still on the theme of the X-Factor I want to congratulate

my good friend Sisco for being appointed the
choreographer for the show. I’ve known Sisco Gomez
for a number of years and you may well have seen him
on the judging panel of the TV show, So You Think You
Can Dance. He’s worked with loads of gaydom’s top
divas and danced with the likes of Kylie, Madonna, Janet Matt, X-Factor (Syco)
Jackson, and Alexander Burke to name but a few. His
routines for video shoots have become legendary and
I’m happy that such a large audience as the X Factor
gets, will see the calibre of his brilliant work. Photo: SYCO

30 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

 shockpop
Visit CarstenAndersson.com for more info

The Rise of the Wild Child Popper

By Will Baker
Madonna ignited shock pop as we know it today when she performed “Like a Virgin” at
the 1985 Video Music Awards wearing a combination bustier/wedding gown, and her
trademark "Boy Toy" belt. And who can forget 2003 when portraying a groom, she open-
mouth kissed her brides, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera?

These days, it’s not only Madonna who is using shock to grab attention for her music.
Christina raised eyebrows with “Dirty”, followed by Katy Perry who “kissed a girl and liked
it”. Today’s leading players of pop – Ke$ha, Adam Lambert, and of course, Gaga - are
gaining notoriety by being untamed and unashamed.

We at Bent take a look at a couple of new American artists who are upping the shock
ante, doing things never-before-seen in pop music… it ain’t just the ‘gay thing’ any more!

KILLIAN WELLS – Blonde Bi Bombshell

Do you see yourself as a shock KW: There’s still a long way to go but
pop artist? society is definitely more open-minded
KW: It’s not intentional. I’m simply unwilling now. Lady Gaga and Adam Lambert have
to censor myself. Art stops being art when huge followings. It goes to show that a so-
you neuter your creativity. called ‘alternative’ sexual orientation isn’t a
deal breaker anymore.  
The boy-on-boy kiss in the video has
shock value.  Who is your shock-pop idol? 

KW: It’s about time a mainstream artist had KW: Prince because he did it all
the balls to do a boy-on-boy kiss.   without fear.

Has the kiss brought the attention to
the video you hoped it would?
KW: I find more people are shocked by the
drunken vomiting in the video.
Artists like George Michael and Ricky
Martin hid their sexuality while they
were on the top of the charts.  Is
sexuality more accepted today? 
Sometimes being too shocking can
derail an artist’s career.  When Josie
Cotton released “Johnny Are You
Queer?” in ‘81, she lost her record deal. 
Do you fear it may be too soon for a
guy-on-guy kiss? 
KW: I was nervous in the beginning but
the response has been way positive. I’m
working with some major people in the
music industry because of the attention
from the video.
Are you being a good role model for
today’s young listeners?
KW: I hope I can be a role model
for young fans who are afraid to be
themselves. However, I wouldn’t
encourage young listeners to go get drunk
like we do in the video.
What do you say to parents who
might feel your free-for-all-sexuality is
sending the wrong message to
their kids?
KW: My bisexuality isn’t promoting
promiscuity. I’m actually a monogamous,
relationship-oriented person, which is a
rarity regardless of sexual orientation. It’s
irresponsible for parents to make their kids
feel they have to fit a mould to conform to
society’s standards.
What does your own mom say?
KW: My parent’s views used to be very old
school but I’ve enlightened them.
Is today’s celeb culture teaching fans
it’s weak to be meek?
KW: It’s not new for celebrities to do things
that are seen as taboo. Pop stars can’t
be blamed for someone else’s actions;
that would be like saying porn stars are
responsible for people having sex.
Will you continue to push the envelope
in your next songs and music videos?
KW: Definitely, I’m not holding back.   
Visit KillianWells.com for more info
CARSTEN ANDERSSON – Pop Porn
Do you see yourself as a shock
pop artist?
I probably am. Pretending to be the
clean, innocent boy-next-door wouldn’t
work for me. I can’t compete with
Justin Bieber.
Why did you decide to come clean
about your porn past?
You can’t hide something like porn. It
would come out eventually. Better to
tackle it head-on.
Has it helped bring attention to your
singing career?
Without my porn past, I’d be just
another boy with a song out. Porn has
made people take notice. They want
to see what this boy can do other than
get naked.
Artists like George Michael and
Ricky Martin hid their sexuality while
they were on the top of the charts.  Is
homo and bisexuality more accepted
today?  Porn is the only job I feel comfortable
I think there is always going to be some
issue with being gay. Not with being
gay but with being open with it.
Who is your shock-pop idol?  listeners?
Not Lady Gaga. Most things I see
from her seem copied from artists of
the past.
Katy Perry?
I don’t like her. I find her boring.
What about Madonna?
Madonna in her early years: definitely!
Madonna today: not really shocking
anymore. I like the trashy Europop
stars from the 80s that really knew
how to shock. Amanda Lear was a
transsexual who fooled the world for
years that she was a woman.
Is America ready for a pop-porn star? 
Paris Hilton built a career out of porn.
Other celebrities have followed,
pushing their “accidentally lost private
porns” on the internet.
What do you hope to prove with
your song?
Honestly? Nothing. The song is called
“Fun” and that’s all it is. I did it for fun;
no deeper reason. Basically, I had done
movies, photos… we thought what
comes next? Ok, let’s make a song.
Have you retired from films?
No. I’m open to doing more. Maybe the
big shocking movie is still yet to come.
Do you do porn for the money or
for fun? 
It’s not the money. I can think of a
thousand better ways to earn cash.
with. I know my way around the bed, or
on the couch, or in the barn (laughs).
Do you consider yourself a good
role model for today’s young
 
Hell no. What would happen to the
world if young boys took me as a role
model? Scary thought.
Will you continue to push the
envelope with more songs?
I never make plans beyond the next
24 hours. I have a real messed-up
mind. One day I want this, the other I
want that, and finally I end up in Japan
shooting a manga porn.

32 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

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34 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

popstars with the x-factor
At the turn of the Millennium a
new show hit our TV screens that
introduced us to an original format
to find budding talent. It was a long
way from previous talent shows
that gave anyone a chance, from
pop to opera, comedy to conjurors,
dance to… musical muscles. This
new concept was aimed at the young
and was to find a new pop group...
the programme was called Popstars.
The first series was a sensation and
delivered the breathtaking boy/girl
group Hear Say. Who? I hear some
of you say… but let me remind you
that their first single release ‘Pure
and Simple’ broke a number of music
industry records, easily racking up
sales of a million and becoming the
fastest selling non-charity single up
until that moment.
After another series, which produced
two manufactured groups – one all
boy (One True Voice) and one all girl
(Girls Aloud) a slightly different show
came along called Pop Idol that really
set the TV schedules alight. As Pop
Idol’s popularity grew, Popstars and the
interest in the groups that the show had
created dwindled but the new breed
of solo singers, pitted against each
other together with the combination of
celebrity judges, caustic comments and
public telephone votes… all proved to
be a winning formula.
However, Girls Aloud re-emerged after
the fuss of Popstars and have gone on
to do incredibly well… some members
of the group more than others.
The end of the first series brought
excitement never quite experienced
either by the public or indeed in the
TV corridors of power, with the final
dragging in an unprecedented number
of viewers and the most eagerly
awaited duel to find a winner between
the cute, stammering, voice of an
angel ex choir boy Gareth Gates and
the more sophisticated singing of the
older, and someone equally as cute,
university graduate, Will Young. In
the public’s mind Gareth was already
a winner but in that final push, it was
Will who surprisingly scooped the
top spot. His first release ‘Evergreen’
even outstripping the speedy and high
volume sales of Hear Say’s debut
single, by shipping out discs in massive
numbers (selling over a million in the
first week), taking the top spot, and to
this day maintains its position in the all
time top ten British best selling singles
chart.
A second series of Pop Idol produced
a very unlikely winner in the form of
the rotund, but none-the-less talented,
Scottish singer Michelle McManus but
already the TV companies were looking
for a more exciting show to fill their
Saturday night slot.
X Factor fitted the bill and it has to
be said that the majority of winners
from the six series so far, have gone
on to be very successful recording
artists. Steve Brookstein, who won
the first series had a huge hit but then storm. Her return single, "Bleeding
disappeared after having, ‘artistic Love", reached number one position
differences’ with the show’s creator in over thirty singles charts around the
Simon Cowell. The second series globe. The next winner Leon Jackson
winner was Shayne Ward who gained has yet to show any real superstar
a huge fan following successfully quality although he seems to be
releasing a couple of hit albums and touring in shows with a good deal of
toured to sell out crowds. The third success. 2008 winner Alexandra Burke
winner Leona Lewis disappeared after continues to have chart hits and last
her initial win, only returning a year year’s winner Joe McElderry has just
or so later, reinvented and having a had his first album released to huge
single that literally took the world by acclaim.

ex- factor
A lot can happen in
five years… especially
for an ex winner of the
X Factor.
Despite millions of album and
singles sales, countless awards
(including an Ivor Novello
and a staggering 15 Global
Platinum discs), international
success and a fan club that
grows daily… Shayne Ward
(winner of the second series of
X Factor) has been on hiatus
for a few years now and there
are quite a few new kids on the
block, not to mention a whole
team of finalists from the very
show that created him, vying
for chart success.
But Shayne Ward is back,
looking and sounding better (The Script). The album is said
than ever. The 25-year-old, to be a Pop work of art… we
Manchester born hunk is set can only wait in anticipation.
to storm up the charts with
his highly anticipated third Obsession
album, entitled Obsession. Out: 15th November - Syco
He’s not been idol while on Photo: Tony Duran
this slight break in his career. http://www.myspace.com/
In fact, Simon Cowell, the shayneward
pop Svengali who is guiding
Shayne’s career, has so much
faith in the man that he gave
him time and space to write
and work with an array of
the hottest producers around
including; chart dominator Taio
Cruz, Darkchild (credits include
Lady GaGa, Pussycat Dolls),
Lucas Secon (Pixie Lott),
Quiz & Larossi (Alexandra
Burke, Pussycat Dolls), Savan
Kotecha (Usher, Britney
Spears) and Andrew Frampton
 bullying
By Lee Hudson
Is it me or does there
seem to be and more
bullying on TV?
Even in comedies or light-hearted,
‘feel-good’ movies, there always
seems to be, if not an out and out
case of bullying, an undercurrent of
harassment or persecution. It has
reached such epidemic proportions
that I actually worry about what horrors
my bestest friend, the television, might
subject me to next. Perhaps that’s the
problem. I love my TV and I don’t want
it to be that making me distressed or
to feel so uncomfortable. How much
worse then it must be if people have to
live with that feeling ‘day in-day out’ at
work, school or even at the hands of
so-called ‘friends’.
With the release of the Stonewall
inspired and financed film FIT, aimed
at school kids, more people are
seeing just how much of a problem
homophobic bullying can be in a
person’s formative years. I have just
read about 13-year-old Asher Brown
over in the States - The eighth-grade
straight-A student was picked on for
being small, not wearing designer
clothing, and for being gay. Bullies
performed “mock gay acts” on Brown
during Phys Ed. His mother said her
phone calls were never returned and
when both parents visited to the school
to complain about harassment they
were ignored. The torment took its
toll; on the 23rd September this year
at around 4:30pm Asher retrieved his
stepfather’s 9mm Beretta from the
closet and shot himself dead.
We know America is a country of
extremes but this act wrenched at my
heart and anger at the perpetrators
flooded through my body. How could
no one stop this lad’s torment?
Schools, and especially American
schools, have this jock = top-dog,
while geek = victim mentality… just
look at the series Glee for confirmation
of that ridiculous assumption.
However, this series is watched by
millions world-wide and I wonder,
despite the fabulous songs and brilliant
musical numbers, just what other
messages it is sending out.
Schools in the UK need to be on the
look-out for bullying in all its forms
and let’s hope that FIT is a resource
that will prove effective in tackling this
undeniable menace.
However, school is not the only place
where bullying takes place. We hear
more and more about such activities
taking place in the work place. I
suppose we hear about them more
these days because people are
more aware of their right to complain
and expect action to be taken.
Unfortunately this isn’t always the case
and many employers would rather see
the problem simply swept under the
carpet. Don’t let this happen, if you feel
you are being bullied, whether it is a
result of your personality or sexuality,
complain and make a huge song and
dance about it if nothing appears to be
being done.
People of all ages seem to be under
attack on these social networking
websites, particularly Facebook. Liz
Carnell, a director of Bullying UK says;
"The amount of distress that abuse,
false rumours and hate messages can
cause is appalling. Often the website
address of these postings is passed
around school (or workplace) so the
humiliation is total and people panic
because they don't know what to do to
get the abuse removed". Bullying UK
recommends that people who are
not just
kids stuff
abused on the internet print out the
content and make a complaint to
the police who have the power to
contact the website and then the
internet service provider to find out
who is behind the abuse. "Bullies
should be warned that there is no
hiding place in cyber space," Liz
said. "Everything you do on the
internet leaves a digital fingerprint
and if you post abuse and threats
then it isn't difficult for the police to
track you down."
Bullying can be defined as
deliberately hurtful behaviour that
is repeated over a period of time.
This can include:
teasing, abusive remarks and
name calling threats and physical
violence damage to property
leaving the individual out of social
activities deliberately spreading
rumours upsetting mobile phone
or email messages (sometimes
called cyberbullying) The bully
selects their target using the
following criteria: bullies are
predatory and opportunistic - you destroy anyone
who has integrity) having at least one
just happen to be in the wrong place
vulnerability that can be exploited
at the wrong time; this is always the
being too old or too expensive (usually
main reason - investigation will reveal
a string of predecessors, and you will both)
refusing to join an established clique
have a string of successors being
showing independence of thought or
good at your job, often excelling being
popular with people (colleagues, deed So, don’t be bullied.
customers, clients, pupils, parents,
Shout out “NO” and make sure
patients, etc) more than anything else,
everyone understands why you are
the bully fears exposure of his/her
shouting this. It may not be easy to
inadequacy and incompetence; your
stick-up for yourself but there are
presence, popularity and competence
groups and organisations around who
unknowingly and unwittingly fuel that
you can look to for help.
fear having a well-defined set of values
www.stonewall.org.uk
which you are unwilling to compromise
having a strong sense of integrity www.workplacebullying.co.uk
(bullies despise integrity, for they www.bullyonline.org
have none, and seem compelled to www.bullying.co.uk

Making a song and according to the interview, had

dance about it.
As all of us Gleeks get ready for
the second series of this song
and dance fest, and with all the
reports of a bevy of stars all
eager, or already signed up, to be
in the show, we take a look at one
of the programme’s mainstays.
He isn’t the hunkiest, or perhaps
the sexiest, member of the cast
but Glee’s soft-spoken and
keen Kurt Hummel, played very
convincingly by Chris Colfer,
says in an interview with Access
Hollywood that his character in
the show is more reality than
fiction. He was out during his
real high school years; and,
accepting parents but was
bullied while in school - an issue
often talked about on Glee. The
producers of the show were so
impressed with the young actors
audition performance (he’d read
for the part of Artie) that they
created the role of Kurt for him.
According to the Glee website,
Kurt, sorry Chris, was "very active
during high school" and grew up
performing in community and
regional theatre. At age 14, he
assistant-directed a theatrical
benefit for Valley Children's
Hospital. He was also president
of the writer's club, editor of the
school literary magazine and a
speech and debate champion.
Glee returns for the second
series on Channel 4 (or E4)

36 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

 stephen hoo
“FIT – Stonewall’s film for schools – is an
intelligent, powerful and entertaining film. The
storyline uses hip-hop, humour, colourful Adidas
tracksuits and lively writing similar to Channel 4’s
Skins to communicate with pupils in a way that
makes it easy for them to engage with the issues
raised.”
One of the characters in FIT is a bully with a secret
Ryan, played by out and proud actor Stephen Hoo.
Lee Hudson wanted to know more about this good-
looking young rising star so stalked the lad and
posed the questions.
How did you get your part in FIT… what was
the audition process?
I was in the stage version of FIT which toured
all over the U.K before it was made into a film. I
was so chuffed to be asked back to be in the film
version and so I didn't have to audition. I did get
to see the audition process for some of the other
actors which was really interesting. Rikki ( Beadle-
Blair writer/director) wanted passionate people with
a vested interest in the subject matter. 
Had you any dealings with bullying either at
home, at school or perhaps on set?
When I was younger I bullied other kids who I
thought were gay as a way of deflecting from the
fact that I was gay myself. This is exactly what my
character Ryan does in the film. It's a control thing.
A power thing.  Have you seen me? You must be dizzy blud!
How do you feel about your character?
I feel sorry for Ryan. He has no support. He's
grown up in an environment at school where he
is made to feel ashamed of who he is. Like many
schools in the world the subject of homosexuality
is one of disgust, otherness, humour and
homophobic language is wide spread and a term
of abuse to anyone regardless of the recipients
sexuality. While that dynamics exists he feels the
only way to survive is to be secretive and try and
n
blend in with his surroundings. In doing this he
t i o
is utterly conflicted, unhappy and becomes an
t i
oxymoron of sorts.
m p e
When did you come out?
co
I came out to a friend when I was about 15. I
remember physically shaking uncontrollably and
feeling sick.
Karmel likes make-up and trendy clothes, yet she
Win
also likes girls. Does she need to ‘fit’ the lesbian
stereotype? Ryan is one of the lads. Computer
games, beer and bullying are the name of his
This!
game, yet a secret crush on fellow pupil Tegs
threatens to blow his cover. Isaac, meanwhile,
uses muscles and a hot head to threaten his
schoolmates with violence should they display a
gay attitude in his vicinity. It is down to loud and
Turn to page 62 proud drama teacher Loris and his pink leotard
to show these kids that they share a lot more in
for details common than they first thought.
Stonewall have invested a great deal of their
reputation on this film… have you ever done
any campaigning before?
No. I knew of Stonewall but had never had any
dealings with them until I became involved in FIT.
I think the work of Stonewall is so great and the
work they do is so vital. I'm so proud to be involved
with them. They have done so much for the cause
and continue to do so. I'm so proud of them.
What do you feel about the various Gay Pride
events that blossom all over the world?
I think it's only a good thing. Celebrating the rich
diversity of the world is only a positive thing that
expresses tolerance. But don't forget that many
countries still don't have constitutional rights or
support LGBT people. There's still a long way to
go. In some countries that allow gay pride events
they are met with violence.
Have you been to any Prides… if so… which
is your favourite (and which would you like to
go to)?
I've only been to London, SOHO and Brighton
pride ... I'd love to go to some pride events in other
countries though for sure!
Are you in a relationship?
Why are you asking? You want my number? Do
you like me?  I'm FIT right!!!!   What? I'm not?  
What (or who) is your ideal partner?
Look if you like me just ask me out already! No but
seriously though. Someone who looks like Joseph
Gordon Levitt but with the brain of Noam Chomsky!
Am I asking too much?
Is there a part you would do ‘anything’ to get?
I am a huge Trekkie ... I would die to be in Star
Trek. I always wanted to be Wesley Crusher.
What are we going to see you in next?
I'm in Rikki Beadle-Blair's hilarious comedy KICK
OFF coming out very soon. It's about a gay team
and straight team and all that ensues. 
Final question: What style and brand of
underwear do you prefer?
Okay… this is the truth. I like really plain
Y-fronts!  Flashy labels and brands don't do it for
me. I find brands garish! But plain briefs? Oh YES!
FIT is in the cinemas from 5th November
FIT is the feature film adaptation of Stonewall’s
highly successful play for schools aimed at
tackling homophobic bullying, seen by more than
20,000 students around the UK.
Out: 29th November - £14.99– Peccadillo
Pictures
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of
this groundbreaking DVD, just answer this
simple question:
Where in the USA was the original Stonewall
Inn situated:
a. New York, b.Chicago, c. Miami
 e a u t y
B and the freaks
first date war
Okay, so here's the problem. I get
lots of first dates. And I mean lots.
Sometimes I worry I'm hogging the
North's fair share of first dates, but
whatever. The problem is, I rarely go
for second dates. And it's not that
I'm meeting entirely inappropriate
people any more. I screen them
carefully now, so all the weirdos,
unsexy pervs (because a bit of kink
is fine with me) and flakes don't get
through. But I never want to go on
a second date. And often, neither
do they.
This strikes me as odd. I'm not the
only person this happens to. My
friends often bemoan their single
status but then steadfastly refuse to
invite guys on a second date. After
careful consideration, and listening to
my friends' umpteen descriptions of
technically perfect first dates that have
failed to yield results, I think I've figured
it out.
First dates are no longer about finding
someone to carry on dating. More
usually they're about finding someone
to stop dating.
How many times have you sat there,
on a technically perfect first date,
where the chit-chat is witty and funny
and sexy, and you're eating good food,
drinking nice cocktails, and thinking
about how sweet the other person is,
while secretly tallying up as many faults
as you can find? This to me seems to
be the problem.
First dates are about convincing
ourselves not to take things further,
which seems an utter perversion. I'm
almost sure it's more about protecting
ourselves than genuinely not wanting
to find someone (because otherwise
why are we going on these dates in
the first place?). We're our own worst
enemies.
I was on a great date the other week,
and the guy in question had so much
in common with me. He was hot. I was
hot. The sex was hot. We started off
with drinks, which spiralled into dinner,
which led to clubbing, which followed
with a night at his, and then brunch
in an underground café. On paper, it
seemed right. But the whole time, I
was expecting something to go wrong.
I was anticipating that it wouldn't work
out because, well, it never works out,
does it?
Maybe if we'd given each other a
chance, and asked for that second
date, we might have found something
more? Maybe we told ourselves the
problem was there was no 'spark'. But
we laughed and had fun and were
attracted to each other. It's not exactly
an explosion of emotion, but surely it's
a spark of some kind?
Maybe we didn't really get to know the
other side. We weren't enemies: we
38
were allies, fighting for the same thing,
and could have worked together if we'd
let down our guard.
I'm not going to lie: I go into first date
mode as soon as I meet someone for
the first time. Like a great tactician, I
move into battle with stories I know will
make him laugh, or will impress, or will
leave him shellshocked.
I know which parts of myself to reveal
and move in formation, trying to delay
the inevitable while in no-man's land.
But in doing so I'm actually adding to
my own defences and retreating from
the possibility of a relationship, rather
than conquering it.
The revelations are not real displays
of personality, because they're
constructed and considered. We're
not really letting our defences down
because we've planned our actions like
a military operation. We're dealing out
propaganda. We're fighting for hearts
and minds, but half-arsed, as if we
already expect to lose and just want to
minimise the collateral damage.
After we've been round the block a few
times, we're all pretty guarded on first
dates. It's how we survive. So shouldn't
we cut each other some slack?
Maybe sometimes we're complaining
that there's no spark, but maybe
that spark's been sacrificed for best
behaviour. Sometimes we need to feel,
and the best way to feel is to open up
to getting hurt.
Isn't it a good idea to wait for a second
date, when the armour slowly comes
off? Isn't it then we should be expecting
the real spark? Isn't that when we start
to ignore the catalogue of imagined
problems (he won't call me back, he
isn't prompt enough, he went to public
school, there was too much teeth when
he blew me) and let ourselves get to
know someone?
I've been on many first dates, and one
thing I'm positive about is I never got
to really meet someone until much
later on.
Beyoncé
Find out about Simon or message him your
problems at www.myspace.com/simonsavidge
simon says
Dear Simon
I have been seeing a guy for a while
and it was all going really, really well.
There was quite an age gap (15
years) but it didn’t seem to matter
and he seemed really keen. He was
recently single as was I and it seemed
to be going well in all departments.
We’ve met each others friends, had
amazing sex and started talking about
meeting each others family. Suddenly
I get an email dumping me, saying it
isn’t happening for him, which is not
what he said a only a week earlier. I
am so confused.
Lee, Manchester
Dear Lee
This is a tricky one, especially
considering it was done by email
as you haven’t really had the
opportunity to discuss it further
like you would if it was face to
face. I mean you could send an
email back but will it get read?
How would you know? And that
could drive you mad. I would say
leave it, I mean anyone who dumps
someone by text, email, social
media (believe me I have heard
it all from my single/dating gay
friends) is a bit of a loser anyway
right? You’re better off without
him, onto new and hotter men I
say.
Dear Simon
I want a threesome. I want to hire an
escort and get down and dirty with
him and my boyfriend. I know it is a
real fantasy of mine but I’m almost
positive that my bf wouldn’t go for it.
How do I convince him it will be fun?
Grant – Leeds
Dear Grant
Well, you have me convinced but
before you try and convince your
boyfriend you need to ask yourself,
and then him, a few questions.
First you; what do you think you’ll
get from this experience that you
The New
Equality Act
The biggest change in
discrimination law for a generation
came into effect on the 1st October
2010, when the Equality Act came
into force.
The new Act harmonises and
strengthens the existing law making
it unlawful to discriminate because of
age, disability, gender reassignment,
marriage or civil partnership,
pregnancy and maternity, race,
religion or belief, sex and sexual
orientation. These are now referred
to as ‘protected characteristics’ in the
new legislation.
The Act also protects people from
discrimination if they are ‘perceived’
to have a protected characteristic or
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
don’t get from your bf? What type
of escort are you looking for? Is
he the type that your bf will like or
is it all about your fantasy? I’m all
for expanding people’s horizons
and I think people should be
encouraged to try new things but,
and this may be the big but for
your boyfriend, why do you want
to invite a third person into your
lives? Get ready for a complete
rejection of your idea but that
shouldn’t stop you having a go if
it’s that important to you.
Dear Simon
I have always been really rather
proud of my bottoming abilities. The
thing is… I started seeing this guy
and after a small wait, ok, ok on the
first night, we went back to his and
what he revealed in his pants was
quite the meat monster. I mean this
cock isn’t just long it’s got a ridiculous
girth on it (this is starting to sound like
a porn movie scenario) but honestly
it’s true. The first night, being drunk
and up for the challenge, I tried but
failed dismally, since then I have
tried and tried but little more than the
head is going in. What can I do to
‘accommodate’ my man as he worries
about it hurting me and has begun to
get the droop. I still try all the other
things but I want that thing in me.
Suggestions?
Lloyd, Cardiff
Dear Lloyd,
Hmmm, I would say patience
and a really, really good lube
and lots and lots of it. You can’t
really do more than that. I would
say though take the pressure off
the whole bottom thing because
subconsciously that won’t be
helping you at all either. If this fella
is fine to just do everything but for
a while then go with it. Enjoy each
other and the more you relax the
more it will help. It’s not all about
sex after all… is it?
if they are ‘associated’, with someone
who has a protected characteristic
(for example someone who cares for
a disabled person).
Citizens Advice Chief Executive
Gillian Guy, said, “Citizens Advice
Bureaux can help people use the
Equality Act to make their rights a
reality, especially those who have
been on the receiving end of unfair
treatment or discrimination. If people
are being treated worse than other
people because of who they are, or
who they associate with, the new
Equality Act  will give them stronger
rights to do something about it.”
As part of the arrival of the new law,
national charity, Citizens Advice has
updated its advice website,
adviceguide.org.uk with new
factsheets.
MAG.BENT.COM
dvds
Get Him To The Greek
Reuniting Jonah Hill and Russell Brand with
Forgetting Sarah Marshall director Nicholas Stoller,
this is the story of a record company intern with
two days to drag an uncooperative rock legend to
Hollywood for a comeback concert.  The extended
edition includes outrageous extras for your own
personal comedy addiction. These include gag
reels, interviews with the comedy genius’ behind
the film, both the theatrical and extended editions of
the film and the making of Aldous Snow’s hilarious
music video, African Child. Out: 1st November –
DVD & Blu Ray – Universal Pictures
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of this
DVD, just answer this simple question:
Russell Brand is the current beau of which
chart topping female American singer?
The Secret of Kells
Adventure, action and danger await 12 year-old
Brendan who must fight Vikings and a serpent god to
find a crystal and complete the legendary Irish Book
of Kells. A fortified abbey, a master illuminator and a
world of mystery and imagination makes the young
boy’s quest a difficult, yet magical, experience.
This cartoon received glowing reviews when it was
released and isn’t just a kids fantasy it is one that
everyone can enjoy.
Out: 1st November - £19.99 – Optimum Releasing
Win These!
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of this
DVD, just answer this simple question:
In which country is this story set?
Bear City
Come join us in the witty, sexy world of Bearcity - all
you need to do is take the girls from Sex And The City,
inject them with large amounts of testosterone, tape
fur coats to their bodies and perhaps add just an extra
dollop of bitchiness! When twinkie newbie and closet
bear-chaser Tyler finally infiltrates New York’s infamous
bear scene it doesn’t take long for him to become
infatuated with commitment-phobic Roger, the bona
fide Casanova of muscle bears. As Tyler negotiates the
trials and tribulations of his seemingly elusive love, he
finds himself drawn closer to the quirky and endearing
characters populating the fabulous big bear community.
Out: 1st November - £15.99 – tla releaseing
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of this DVD,
just answer this simple question:
In gay-speak – is a Bear more likely to be; a. big and
hairy, b. hunky and muscular, c. slim and hairless
Boys on Film 5
Boys will be boys in Pascal Alex Vincent’s Far West
and Candy Boy, where a farmyard and an orphanage
get a gay makeover. Go Go Rejects sees Flashdance
obsessive Daniel aims for the stars, as Sweat has
Holby City’s David Paisley infiltrating a bath house
with unexpected results. Meanwhile, love proves to be
timeless when Last Call unites past and present, but
Two Young Men hints at an uncertain future. Looking
back on the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet, Blokes
focuses on the sexual awakening of a peeping Tom.
Two more young boys; a confused James and mute
David, both reach out for an experienced hand, but will
they find what they are looking for? Out Now: £15.99
- Peccadillo Pictures
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of this DVD,
just answer this simple question:
Complete the title of this track from Lady Gaga’s
Fame album: Boys, Boys, _____?
Turn to page 62
for details

dvds
interview:
Nicholas Downs
It’s a question we have all asked at
some time or other when the direction
our lives take has an unexpected turn
or the problems we’ve faced seem
to be the result of forces beyond our
control… who is to blame or, “… is it
just me?” American charmer, Nicholas
Downs stars in one of the best received
gay movies of recent years, the rom-
com, not surprisingly called, Is It Just
Me? in which he appears as Blaine, an
unaware cutie desperately in search of
love. Bent caught up with the man who
has previously appeared in mainstream
movies such as Pearl Harbor, The Girl
Next Door and Constantine amongst
others and asked what made him want
to become an actor.
It chose me!! HaHa! Just kidding, but that
would be funny if that was just my answer.
It’s always been something I’ve loved and
wanted to do. Now having the privilege of
being able to do it and make a living at it,
is truly a dream come true.
You’ve appeared on stage, on TV and
in movies, which medium do you
prefer?
Great question. They are so different
and I enjoy each of them. TV is a great
experience, when you guest star on a
show or work a day or two, it’s a very
quick process. Film, when you have
a lead role is a much more involved
process. I love doing film, the inter-
workings, the process, the arc one can
create for a character within it. But theatre
is our mother art form for acting. It’s been
around the longest and I love being on
stage having that curtain go up and being
‘on’ for 2 hours. Nothing like it!
Is there any role you’ve played that you
wished they’d made a spin-off series
of the character because the part was
so good?
Honestly, this one. I could totally see a
series made from Is It Just Me? and I
would love to explore where Blaine goes
next.
Is It Just Me sees you playing a gay
man looking for love… does this have
any cross-over in real life?
I’m not looking for love, I’ve found it, 7
years strong.
40
How was the relationship on set with
your co-stars?
I love my co-stars. David Loren (Xander)
Adam Huss (Cameron) Michelle Laurent
(Michelle) Bruce Gray (Ernie) Bob
Rumnock (Bob) and Ronnie (Lynne
Chaille) were so amazing to work with. All
such talented and devoted actors and the
crew were all terrific. They all set a tone on
set that helped everyone come together
and just work everyday in a nice, safe,
uninhibited environment.
Have you used the internet at all to find
a partner… or is it just there to check
out what’s on Ebay and Amazon?
I’ve dabbled a time or two in the past, but
it’s been a while…mostly use it to check
my Facebook or update a site. Boring stuff
like that. I do find an occasional headshot
of mine for sale on Ebay though… one
I’ve sent to someone as a fan and now
it’s for sale on there… that’s always funny.
Hopefully they are making some money
off of it…
Who is your favourite hero of all time?
Well people like Harvey Milk come to
mind, and Ian McKellen, people who
stood up before it was being done and
said this is who I am and it doesn’t
change anything. I’m still a politician,
an actor, a human. Also, I’ve always
thought Hawkman from DC Comics was
awesome. I’ve always thought it would be
cool to have a pair of wings.
What is your guilt pleasure?
Not sure how much of a guilt pleasure it is,
but I love Man vs.Wild, Bear Grylls.
Who would you kill to perform with?
Ian McKellen, hands down.
Describe you perfect partner?
His name is Nick and we’ve been together
for 7 years.
And a question we ask all our
interviewees… what style/brand is your
favourite underwear?
Whatever’s on sale but a nice trunk cut
Win These!
does nicely.
www.isitjustmethemovie.com
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
Is It Just Me?
One of the funniest and sweetest gay romantic
comedies in years, Is It Just Me? delivers
a refreshingly witty take on one gay boy’s
search for Mr Right. Cute Blaine can’t seem to
meet guys, let alone form a relationship. His
beefy and promiscuous go-go boy roommate
Cameron can’t understand why he doesn’t
pounce and enjoy some one-nighters. Instead,
Blaine hides away and searches Internet
chat-rooms for a kindred spirit. He may have
found one in the form of Zander, a shy recently
relocated Texan. But when the time comes to
exchange photos, Blaine accidentally sends
an image of his hunky roomie and the budding
romance takes a confusing turn!
Out Now - £15.99 – tla releasing
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of
this DVD, just answer this simple question:
Complete the title of this social networking
group - __________book?
Release
From the acclaimed team that brought you the
hit gay thriller Shank, ‘Release’ is an explosive
drama about violence, abuse and budding love
behind walls of a hellish prison. After finding
himself locked-up for a serious crime, young
priest Jack struggles to adapt to life in an
increasingly volatile prison replete with corrupt
guards and a vulnerable cellmate. However,
when he meets guard Martin a passionate but
clandestine affair develops. Out: 8th November -
£15.99 – tla releasing
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of this
DVD, just answer this simple question:
What do the letter HMP stand for?
Romeo + Juliet
Considered a modern classic, this inventive,
unconventional, controversial, Luhrmann’s
Oscar-nominated adaption of William
Shakespeare’s Romeo+Juliet finds the star-
crossed lovers in the modern world of Verona
Beach where Romeo drives a car and Juliet
packs a gun. Set to a thumping soundtrack,
amidst the threat of gunfire and the delicate
embrace of forbidden love, the audience is
invited to drink from an intoxicating cinematic
cocktail that takes them on a ride from Romeo
and Juliet’s budding love, their first kiss, through
to their separation and ultimate demise.
Out: 1st November - £19.99 - Twentieth Century
Fox Home Entertainment
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of this
DVD, just answer this simple question:
Who plays the part of Romeo in this
colourful production?
Moulin Rouge
Widely credited with reinventing the modern
movie musical, Moulin Rouge! exploded onto
screens when it debuted in 2001. Celebrating
some of the best-loved popular music of the
twentieth century, the film found audiences ready
to enjoy the same break-into-song storytelling
currently enjoying its latest reincarnation in
the popular television series Glee. Along with
a multi-platinum selling soundtrack led by the
single “Lady Marmalade,” the film went on to
broadly influence fashion, music, design and
popular culture, and was nominated for eight
Academy Awards, including Best Picture,
winning two for Catherine Martin’s production
design and costume design. Out: 1st November
– Blu-Ray - Twentieth Century Fox Home
Entertainment
To be in with a chance of winning a copy of this
DVD, just answer this simple question:
Which diminutive female Aussie singer plays
the ‘green fairy’ in this movie?
Turn to page 62
for details
MAG.BENT.COM
 FILM
REVIEW
by chris amos
the american Out: 26th november
Hunky George Clooney is back. Alone among assassins, Jack is a master craftsman. When a job
in Sweden ends more harshly than expected for this American abroad, he vows to his contact Larry
that his next assignment will be his last. Jack reports to the Italian countryside, where he holes up
in a small town and relishes being away from death for a spell. The assignment, as specified by
a Belgian woman, Mathilde, is in the offing as a weapon is constructed. Surprising himself, Jack
seeks out the friendship of local priest Father Benedetto and pursues romance with local woman
Clara. But by stepping out of the shadows, Jack may be tempting fate.
another year
Out: 5th november
British filmmaker Mike Leigh delivers another emotionally
honest portrait of ordinary people trying to make sense of
their lives in this comedy drama. Tom (Jim Broadbent) and
Gerri (Ruth Sheen) are a couple who are drifting past middle
age into their sixties who have a stable and happy marriage
and a grown son, Joe (Oliver Maltman), an activist lawyer
who hasn’t settled down yet. One of Gerri’s co-workers and
close friends is Mary (Lesley Manville), who puts up a facade
of desperate good cheer despite the fact she’s been very
lonely since her husband left her and has been drowning her
anxieties in wine. Gerri has unsuccessfully tried to fix Mary
up with Tom’s sloppy but good natured pal Ken (Peter Wight),
and she’s startled when Mary begins openly flirting with Joe,
more than 20 years her junior. Mary’s troubles only grow
worse when she stops by Tom and Gerri’s place only to be
introduced to Katie (Karina Fernandez), Joe’s new girlfriend.

machete
Out: 26th november
After a violent shakedown from a notorious drug
lord nearly kills him, Machete (Danny Trejo), a
renegade Mexican Federale and tough-as-nails
vigilante for justice, roams the streets of Texas,
working as a day labourer. When Machete is
hired by a crooked US Senator to execute a
covert hit, Machete is double-crossed and
forced to run from the cops and an endless
stream of assassins. But what they don’t
know is that Machete is looking for them so
he can settle the score.
jackass 3d
Out: 5th november
The third instalment of Jackass will hit theatres this time in
The cast includes Robert DeNiro,
eye-popping 3D. The addition of 3D to the new film raises the
Jessica Alba, Steven Seagal, Michelle
mayhem factor to new heights, promises star/producer Johnny
Rodriguez, and Lindsay Lohan as a
Knoxville. “We’re going to take the same 3D technology
gun-wielding nun.
James Cameron used in Avatar and stick it up Steve O’s butt.
We’re taking stupid to a whole new dimension.”

Current hot actress of the moment, Emma Stone (Easy

FILM
A, Zombieland) has been officially announced as the

buzz
female lead opposite Andrew Garfield (The Social
Network) in the as yet untitled Spider-Man reboot
directed by Marc Webb (500 Days of Summer). Rhys
Ifans has been announced as the villain.

42 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

Harry Potter And The Deathly
Hallows: Part 1
Out: 19th november
Part 1 begins as Harry, Ron and Hermione set
out on their perilous mission to track down and
destroy the secret to Voldemort’s immortality
and destruction--the Horcruxes. Meanwhile, the
wizardry world has become a dangerous place
for all enemies of the Dark Lord. The long-feared
war has begun and Voldemort’s Death Eaters
seize control of the Ministry of Magic and even
we are what we are
Out: 12th november
A middle-aged man dies in the street, leaving
his widow and three children destitute. The
devastated family is confronted not only with his
loss but with a terrible challenge - how to survive.
For they are cannibals. They have always existed
on a diet of human flesh consumed in bloody
ritual ceremonies... and the victims have always
been provided by the father. Now that he is gone,
let me in
Out: 5th november
A remake of the brilliant Swedish film Let The
Right One In. An alienated 12-year-old boy
befriends a mysterious young newcomer in
his small New Mexico town, and discovers an
unconventional path to adulthood, a haunting
and provocative thriller. Twelve-year old Owen
(Kodi Smit-McPhee) is viciously bullied by his
classmates and neglected by his divorcing
parents. Achingly lonely, Owen spends his days
plotting revenge on his middle school tormentors
Zack Snyder (Watchmen, 300) will direct the upcoming
untitled Superman reboot after meeting with the studio
and producers Chris Nolan (Dark Knight director) and
Emma Thomas.
Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts will team-up together
in the film adaptation of Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer and
Tony-winning darkly comic play August: Osage County.
The film centres on the Weston clan and while mum is
Hogwarts, terrorizing and arresting anyone who
might oppose them. But the one prize they still
seek is the one most valuable to Voldemort:
Harry Potter. The Chosen One has become the
hunted one as the Death Eaters search for Harry
with orders to bring him to Voldemort...alive.
No longer just a boy, Harry Potter is drawing
ever closer to the task for which he has been
preparing since the day he first stepped into
Hogwarts: the ultimate battle with Voldemort.
who will hunt? Who will lead them? How will they
sate their horrific hunger? The task falls to the
eldest son, Alfredo, a teenage misfit who seems
far from ready to accept the challenge... But
without human meat the family will die. Shocking,
bloody and deeply moving, We Are What We Are
is a remarkable reinvention of the horror genre
- a visceral and powerfully emotional portrait of
a family bound by a terrible secret and driven by
monstrous appetites.
and his evenings spying on the other inhabitants
of his apartment complex. His only friend is his
new neighbour Abby (Chloe Moretz), an eerily
self-possessed young girl who lives next door
with her silent father. A frail, troubled child about
Owens’s age, Abby emerges from her heavily
curtained apartment only at night and always
barefoot, seemingly immune to the bitter winter
elements. Recognizing a fellow outcast, Owen
opens up to her and before long, the two have
formed a unique bond.
popping pills, the father has disappeared and Barbara
(Roberts), the oldest daughter in the family is bound for
divorce after learning her husband is cheating on her
with a college student.
Josh Holloway (Lost) has landed a role as a member
of the Impossible Mission Force, the secret agent task
force headed by Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible
IV. He joins the growing cast of the Brad Bird-directed
TEN THINGS
YOU NEVER KNEW
ABOUT...
robert
downey jnr
1. Lived with Sarah Jessica Parker for 7
years during the 1980s.
2. Claims that his father is the one who
introduced him to drugs, by offering him a
marijuana joint when he was 8.
3. Once worked as a piece of living art in a
Soho nightclub in New York City.
4. Kept a lot of the authentic vintage clothing
he wore in the movie Chaplin (1992).
5. In a symbolic attempt to bury his decadent
1980s Brat Pack image and begin a new
phase of his life and career after filming
Chaplin in 1991, he (literally) buried the
clothes that he wore in 1987's Less Than
Zero in the backyard of his house.
6. At the age of 10, while living in London,
Robert attended the Perry House School in
Chelsea and studied classical ballet.
7. Married his first wife after dating her for
only 42 days.
8. Starred in Elton John's music video for
the song I Want Love. Downey was let out
of rehab for one day specifically to shoot
the video (which was filmed in one long
continuous take at Greystone Manor in
Beverley Hills).
9. Childhood friend of Richard Hall aka Moby.
10. Sting and Billy Idol performed at his
wedding to Susan Downey.
Robert Downey Jnr stars in this month's
roadtrip film Due Date out 5th November.
feature which co-stars Ving Rhames, Jeremy Renner,
Paula Patton, Vladimir Mashkov and Michael Nyqvist
(The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo).
Alex Proyas (The Crow, Knowing) will direct Paradise
Lost, an adaptation of the epic 17th-century English
poem by John Milton for Legendary Pictures.
 Istanbul
The 5th largest city in the world
and the European capital of
Culture 2010
A mad city of kebabs,
pomegranates, simits (a Turkish
bagel), carpets, lamps, material &
fake clothing, spices, traffic jams and
of course mosques, which are located
on nearly every corner of every street.
Turkey's location at the crossroads of
Europe and Asia makes it a country
of significant geostrategic importance.
This important location, its amazing
history and Islamic culture, are what
makes Istanbul such an astonishing
city.
Its history goes back ages as Greek
settlers first founded a colony on the
present-day Istanbul around 660 BC
calling it Byzantium. Then in 306 the
Roman emperor “Constantine the
Great” regenerated the city and it
became known as Constantinople
(the new Rome) the largest city of
the Roman Empire and of the world.
There are many theories attempting
to explain why the city was renamed
Istanbul. The one that seems to
be most accepted is that the name
Istanbul derives from a Medieval
Greek phrase” is tin ‘polin” meaning
"to the city". Located in northwestern
Turkey, Istanbul today is the 5th
largest city proper in the world (over
3 times the size of Greater London)
with a population of 12.8 million.
The famous Bosphorus is a strait,
which connects the Sea of Marmara
to the Black Sea and divides the city
into a European side, comprising
44
the historic and economic centers,
and an Asian side. As such, Istanbul
is the only bi-continental city in the
world. The city is further divided by
the Golden Horn, a natural harbor
bounding the peninsula where the
former Byzantium and Constantinople
were founded. When you first arrive
into Istanbul the Golden Horn is a
great place to start your adventure
and is the centre of the tourist and
historic hot spots.
Galata Tower is a great thing to
venture up and get your bearings, it
offers a unique panoramic view of the
city, with all the famous mosques, the
Bosphorus and Golden Horn: such a
beautiful sight.
The main street İstiklal Caddesi
(İstiklal meaning Independence,
Caddesi meaning Avenue) is one of
the most famous avenues in Istanbul
visited by nearly 3 million people per
day. It’s an elegant shopping street,
approximately three kilometers long.
The nearer you get to its top end
Taksim Meydanı (Taksim meaning
Distribution, Meydani meaning
Square) the gayer it gets, although
don’t expect to see a gay scene
comparable to that of what we have
in the UK as it’s very different.
There are no laws against
homosexuality in Turkey since the
beginning of the republic period
(1923). In fact, there is not any law
at all concerning homosexuality.
The number of the gay venues has
increased rapidly especially during
the last 15 years. Taksim district of
by ChrisGeary.com
Beyoglu town (on the European side
of Istanbul) is the centre of almost all
major gay venues. In fact, this district
is the centre of local night life. There
are many modern or traditional gay
clubs, bars, saunas and hamams
(Turkish baths) near the Taksim/
Beyoglu area.
The two main gay cafe bars to start
with and meet the locals are:
Chianti Cafe Pub
www.istanbulgaybar.com/
Sugarcafe Club www.sugar-cafe.com
Most gay bars & clubs in Istanbul
don’t get busy till after midnight. The
price of a drink ranges from between
5-8 Euros for local drinks, 10-15
Euros for "imported drinks" (such as
Whiskey, Malibu, Safari, cocktails
etc.) Some bars will accept Euros, but
it’s cheaper to pay with Turkish liras.
The best clubs are:
Otherside Club This was the club that
booked us to dance and flew us out
there. It’s a great club, check out the
Rakkas (male belly dancer) shows.
www.othersideistanbul.com
X-Large. The biggest gay club in
Istanbul located in a former cinema.
Well known for its big stage shows
and great music.
Tekyon Club  www.tekyonclub.com   straight and Asian part of Istanbul.
Club Prive is the oldest of the gay
bars in Istanbul. It is a small yet very
busy venue playing Turkish pop
music.
Cub Ekoo  www.ekooclub.com
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
Club Magma  www.club-magma.com 
Sahra Club is a 5 storey bar/club with
a very eye-opening atmosphere. Go
check it out at least once because it’s
a one of a kind, either a fun house or
horror show according to your opinion
Along with the traditional Turkish
kebab restaurants (which are
everywhere), many European
and Far Eastern restaurants and
numerous other cuisines are also
thriving in the city. Most of the city's
historic winehouses (meyhane in
Turkish) and pubs are located in the
areas around İstiklal Caddesi. The
19th century Çiçek Pasajı (Flower
Passage) on İstiklal Caddesi has
many historic meyhanes, pubs and
restaurants. The famous Nevizâde
Sokak which has rows of historic
meyhanes next to each other is also
in this area. Istanbul is also known
for its historic seafood restaurants.
The most popular ones are generally
found along the shores of the
Bosphorus and by the Marmara
Sea shore towards the south of the
city. There are no gay-exclusive
restaurants in Istanbul but these
come recommended:
Besinci Kat Restaurant - a roof
restaurant-bar is on the 5th floor
with breathtaking view of Bosphorus
www.5kat.com
360 Restaurant - referring to a
360 degree view, the sea view is
breathtaking. Located on the top
(8th) floor of historical building.
www.360istanbul.com
MAG.BENT.COM
Cok Cok Thai - the fresh spices and
herbs used in the cooking, purely Thai
and South East Asian, relate back to
the Silk Route that once connected
with Istanbul. www.cokcok.com.tr
Cooking Alaturca - a very gay-friendly
lunch time restaurant.
www.cookingalaturka.com/
Istanbul is surrounded by the sea but
because of the pollution caused by
its massive population, there are very
few beach areas left to swim which
are close to city center. The locals go
to the southern part of Turkey for their
beach holidays. There are no beaches
in Istanbul visibly frequented by gay
people, but there are some swimming
areas where it's more likely to meet
other guys. These are Kinaliada,
Florya Beach and Sarayburnu.
Research them on the internet to find
when and where they are most busy.
Other tourist attractions and historic
places you must visit are:
1) The 7 massive mosques - Istanbul
has been called "The City of Seven
Hills" because the oldest part of the
city is supposedly built on seven
hills, each of which bears a historic
mosque. I personally think the Blue
Mosque is the most impressive, if you
can only see one, go see this one.
2) The Grand Bazaar - is the oldest and has amazing panoramic views Turks tend to stare at people
(1461) and one of the largest of the city (especially blond hair, and even more
covered markets in the world,  7) Bosphorus Tour - a tourist boat if you have a Mohawk like me) more
with more than 58 covered ride taking you along the Bosphorus, than us Westerners are use to. If you
streets and over 1,200 shops. under both bridges and great views don’t like to be stared at, dress less
of the city. like a tourist and wear a hat to cover
3) The Hippodrome - once
any unusual hair styles.
a huge stadium for chariot 8) Shopping Malls - the best ones are
racing. The surviving Akmerkez and Cevahir which have If you see someone holding their hand
monuments of the Spina, awards for being 2 of the biggest and with palm up and bringing fingers in
the two obelisks and the best in the world. toward thumb, this is a compliment
Serpentine Column are many and generally means something is
Istanbul Gay Pride is at the end of "good." It can be done when they like
thousands of years old.
June www.prideistanbul.org a food, clothing, or any object. It can
4) Topkapı Palace - the
A good gay web site with info about also mean they are attracted to you.
imperial residence of the
the gay scene and tourist guides: Raising your chin, moving your
Ottoman Sultans, now a
www.istanbulgay.com eyebrows up and simultaneously
museum.
It is very common in Turkey to see clicking your tongue means "NO."
5) The Spice Bazaar - the
two men arm in arm while walking on (Try it. It is fun!).
center for spice trade in
the street (Turks tend to touch much
Istanbul.
more than us Westerners). This does
6) The Galata Tower - the not mean they are homosexual, they
apex of the fortifications are just good friends.
surrounding the Genoese
citadel (fortress) of Galata

bent on...
benidorm
Roll over Gran Can, make way Sitges! Adrian Gillan has his
Spanish preconceptions shattered in surprisingly gay, bloke-
brimming Benidorm!
Main hub of the Costa Blanca, in the region
of Valencia in eastern Spain – a tiny finishing
village until the jet-tourist boom of the 1950s
and 60s – now-70,000-populated Benidorm
rests, perched on the Med, attracting gay male
mariners from far around. Colourful and brash -
still a cross between Blackpool and Las Vegas
at heart, with more hotel beds than the entire of
Greece put together - it is, however, now going
upmarket in places, as well as re-injecting youth
culture amidst a generally aging client-base,
plus rediscovering a present-day quintessentially
queer flavour, notably around the so-called ‘Old’
Town.
TO STAY
Hotel Presidente (Ave. de Filipinas; T:  +34 965
853 950; www.hotelesbenidorm.com) – Gay-
wooing, mere minutes from sand, scene and
sights.
TO EAT
Restaurante El Barranco (Calle Vincente Llorca
Alos 14, Playa de Poniente; www.barrancoplaya.
com) – One of the finest eateries, on posh
Poniente beach, overlooking the sea, out
towards Benidorm’s dramatic off-shore island.
Does wonders with rice and all-things-fish!
TO SEE & DO
5 beaches – Not just famous Brit-brimming
Levante, but also equally huge, more upmarket,
for-the-locals, Poniente; plus tiny, sheltered Mal
Pas, in between them, at the foot of the ‘Old’
Town; plus two more secluded stretches a tad
north-east of the main sandy drags. All of ‘em
dead clean!
Eng-er-land – All-day bacon-n-eggs, beamed-in
Premiership matches, tabloid-selling stalls and
enough beer to burp at: Benidorm wouldn’t be
Benidorm without us crazy Brits!
‘Old’ Town – ‘Old’ mostly hardly predating the
1950s, in truth, but a warren of gay-bar-brimming
smaller streets nonetheless, not to mention the
46
USEFUL CONTACTS
Award-winning low fares airline Monarch offers
flights to Alicante (45 mins by road to/from
Benidorm) from Birmingham, London Gatwick,
London Luton and Manchester airports with
fares, including taxes, starting from £46.50 one
way (£76.99 return). In addition to year-round
low fares, Monarch also offers a unique range of
tasty hot and cold meals that can be pre-booked
or purchased onboard, with prices from £3.
Seats can be pre-booked at £7.50 per one-
way flight, to avoid the last minute free-for-all
experienced on some other airlines; or, for only
£15, extra-legroom seats are available, which
offer up to six inches of extra space. Passengers
travelling on scheduled flights can also avoid
the queues at the airport and take advantage
of online check-in which is available between
seven days and 4 ½ hours prior to departure.
For more info or to book: www.monarch.co.uk
General info about Benidorm:
www.benidorm.org/turismo/
General info on Spain: www.spain.info/uk; or
request a brochure via 08459 400 180 (24 hrs)
wonderful rocky Mirador del Castillo vantage Spanish Tourist Office: PO Box 4009, London ,
point, jutting out to sea, from which to spy each W1A 6NB; 020 7486 8077;
main beach on either side, along with Benidorm’s info.londres@tourspain.es
famous hotel-high-rise sky-line, plus majestic
hills out back!
Segway Tour (www.costablancatour.com) – See
both main beaches effortlessly on a Segway,
plus hilly ‘Old’ Town in between, whilst turning
every head en route. A right boy-babe magnet!
Medieval Tournament (www.desafiomedieval.
com) - Fun dinner-show-disco, full of hammy
knights-on-horses and homo-erotic jabbing ‘n
jousting, 15 minutes by car outside of Benidorm!
TO BOOZE & CRUISE
The gay scene revolves around the ‘Old’ Town –
and, to be honest, involves an almost exclusively
male, slighter older crowd, but no less fun for
that. Many bars have dark rooms, and there isn’t
really a dedicated dance club. As ever in Spain,
you’ll still need a disco nap to reach nocturnal
synch – then dinner from 10pm, bars from 1am!
There are over two dozen gay venues, so here’s
a mere taster…
Bars
Refuel Café (Calle San Pedro 10) – Mainly
daytime Poniente joint, good for meals and
snacks.
Kafee Klee (Calle del Pal 9) – Buzzing café, with
drag acts that fair sprawl out onto the streets.
Viva (Calle Alicante 41) – Cruise bar.
Lovers (Carrer dels Quatre Cantons 3) –
Youngish cruisy bar with cabins and darkrooms.
Heaving.
Mercury (Calle Alicante 10) – Bar with good
dance space.
People (Carrer de la Santa Faç 29) – Modern
bar, likewise with dance area.
Sauna / Sex Club
H20 Sauna (Tomas Ortuño 46)
Outdoor cruising
Dove Park – Old town end of Poniente, by night.
Playa Racó del Conill - Nude beach 2km towards
Alicante, by day.
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM
 brighton hotels

LEGEND HAPPY TIME

Throughout the cold winter months enjoy the best views in Brighton
and get great drinks deals into the bargain. From Monday to Thursday
5pm – 8pm ‘Legends Happy Time' is the time to unwind after work or
get in an early drink before you go out. With ‘Legends Happy Time’ all
drinks at only £2!

Mondays just got zanier, 'cause 'The Drag With No Name' is back
at Legends from Monday 1st November! Each week join DWNN
for a night filled with song, sketches and chat. That's not all though
because each week and every week a special guest will be appearing
in the second half of the show.

Also this month Legends celebrates its 18th Birthday Party with the
help of three of the UK's top cabaret acts. On Sunday 21st November
join Lola Lasagne, Lequisha Jonz & Lizzy Drip for a fun filled day of
top cabaret.

Brighton's own Lola Lasagne starts the day off at 3.30pm with her
great stand-up act. Followed by the USA's most infamous export,
Miss Trailer Trash herself Lequisha Jonz. The US chat show
circuit's most wanted star will be at Legends at 6.45pm. Following
that madness is the queen of quick changes herself Lizzy Drip at
9pm. Lizzy will bringing along all your favourites including her take
on Dolly Parten and Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. Plus there's
Selected Drinks at only £2 all day, so don't miss one hell of a birthday
celebration at Legends on Sunday 21st November from
3.30pm till late.

Legends & The Basement Club, 'a revolution in late night venues'
31-34 Marine Parade, Brighton BN2 1TR
Tel: 01273 624462
Fax: 01273 624575
www.legendsbrighton.com

48 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

blackpool hotels

Blackpool
Blackpool Illuminations sees this seaside city of fun still buzzing with excitement
and laughter long after other resorts have gone into winter hibernation.
At 10 kilometres long and using over one million bulbs the Blackpool
Illuminations are an awesome spectacle. This year the big switch on was
performed by none other than Mr Robbie Williams accompanied by a host of
recording stars all keen to be part of Blackpool’s illustrious passion for lights.
The really good thing for the town is that the lighting spectacular brings in a
host of tourists and fills the clubs, bars and hotels with a new and vibrant crowd.
Check out the hotels on this page and book yourself in for a fun weekend.

THE WILLOWFIELD
01253 623406
ATHOL HOTEL 3 Mount St,
Blackpool, FY1 2DQ

51 BANKS ST. BLACKPOOL. FY1 2BE “In the heart of

Blackpool’s gay village”
Car Parking
Ensuites Available
English / Continental Breakfast
Free Ironing Service

01253 624 918

atholhotel.co.uk
BED & BREAKFAST
OPEN ALL YEAR atholhotel@blueyonder.co.uk
Minutes from the Gay Scene
now taking bookings for christmas
email: willowfieldgh@blueyonder.co.uk
www.willofield-guesthouse.co.uk All major credit cards accepted

Granby Lodge
Nigel welcomes you to the

enbrook
PRIVATE HOTEL H otel BLACKPOOL
• Tea/Coffee making “A SMALL, CLEAN, COMFORTABLE & FRIENDLY
facilities HOTEL OFFERING A VERY WARM WELCOME TO
in all rooms BOTH MEN & WOMEN”
• Car parking available
• Residential Licence • 2 mins walk from Clubs,
• Doubles, groups & Pubs, Shops & sea
family
rooms available
• Most rooms en-suite, all with TV,
tea/coffee making facilities
• 5 mins from
Blackpool North train Station & shops • Generous Full English /
Vegetarian breakfast
69 Lord Street, North Shore,
• Free car park
Blackpool FY1 2BJ
• Club & Sauna concessions
• Open all year
01253 626737
15 Lord Street, Blackpool, FY1 2AZ
www.thelenbrookhotel.com Tel. Brian: 01253 627842
info@thelenbrookhotel.com www.granbylodge.com

HOTEL NEVADA
23 Lord Street, North Shore, Blackpool, FY1 2BD

Seconds away from gay scene

Club and Sauna concessions
Full English breakfast
All rooms en-suite
Late late key, car park 2 mins away
Open all year, special winter / new year rates
Smoking Rooms Available

01253 290 700

0796 145 2170
www.hotelnevada.co.uk
 johan’s blog
By Invitation Only
I had just one week to wash and iron
all my shirts and jeans after my recent
holiday, and to be honest it wasn’t nearly
enough time to become acclimatised
to normal life again! However, I had
to travel over to Amsterdam almost
immediately to start promoting my new
movie “Invitation Only”, which had just
been released.
My holiday in Thailand was simply fantastic
- 3 whole weeks of pure relaxation, with
plenty of sun, time on the beach, sports,
culture, spicy food and great clubs! I
love Thailand so much - indeed, it’s my
preferred holiday destination after Cape
Town. That said, Thailand is much cheaper
than South Africa - I mean, where else in
the world could you get such great food for
less than 50 cents for a whole meal? And
an hour’s massage for less than 5 Euros
(Professional massages, I mean - the
others I still get for free!)
Unfortunately, my three weeks in Thailand
passed by far too quickly, and before I
realised it I was already sitting on the plane
back from Bangkok to Prague. In no time at
all it was a case of going from sunshine and
35 degrees to heavy rain and 14 degrees.
In short, a complete nightmare!
Well, now I’m back in Amsterdam and am
starting to promote my new DVD, which is
the second release of my very own studio
and about which I am very proud! Here
I’m a producer, director, editor, actor - and
sometimes even the camera guy! - all in
one person. As a result, I can select my
own models, locations and what goes on
in front of the camera, all myself. My first
DVD was sold out in just a few months, and
there’s every expectation that this second
title - “Invitation Only” - will be met with a
similar response.
Once again, the movie features lots of
scenes with me and all my horny fuck
buddies from the Czech Republic, although
this time I’ve also invited some actors from
50
abroad to have hard, dirty sex with. One of
these guys is the fabulous American model,
Turk Mason, who features on the cover
of the DVD. My scene with him was very
special since Turk is a really great fuck - the
perfect bottom even - and the experience
was as horny as hell. Even though the
guy is not 100% boyfriend material (in my
opinion), he still has a perfect ass and
knows exactly how to move when being
fucked. Believe me, you’ll definitely know
what I mean when you see the scene.
Gees, I enjoyed it so, so much …
I haven’t just promoted my DVD whilst
over in Amsterdam, however - although
we have had a boat trip along the city’s
canals, during which I gave interviews to
the press (in the rain - very Dutch!!) No, I’ve
also managed to negotiate a very special
present for you, to celebrate that I’ve been
writing this blog in BENT magazine now
for almost a year: a 10% reduction on your
next purchase at www.Homoactive.com
Homoactive is the biggest gay DVD
and gay lifestyle online store in Europe,
selling DVDs, toys, lube, underwear and
downloads. What’s more, there’s free
delivery for all orders worldwide! To claim
this month’s 10% discount on everything,
just enter the code: bent when you check
out . The offer’s open until 1st December,
and you can use it as many times as you
want. And don’t forget, it’s also valid for my
new DVD, Invitation Only, so remember to
add that to your basket as well.
I hope you’ll have lots of fun with my little
present for you, and that you’ll enjoy
watching my new DVD as much as I loved
producing it.
See you on my site Johan-Volny.com and
next month here at Bent.
Johan xx
BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM
 books

EROTIC DREAMS
By David Vance
For almost four decades David Vance has been searching
and capturing immaculate male beauty with his camera.
His work is unmistakable, his pictures are of great
demand to numerous collectors—and yet after all these
years Vance decided to head for new road in his artistic
expression. In this new photo book he shows us images
that are way more dreamy and playful; Vance takes us on a
journey through his own erotic dream world, a journey with
a lot to discover. Masculinity and strength, sensuality and
aesthetics—these are the cornerstones of his image world.
 
£49.99 - Bruno Gmunder

Mary Ann in Autumn

Empire
By Steven Saylor
Empire is strewn with
spectacular scenes from
Rome’s rich, dark and
eccentric background of
emperors, intrigue and
cruelty. This book charts
five generations of the
same family as they fall
under the spell of the
notorious Messalina, the
charismatic Nero and a
strange new cult called…
the Christians.
£16.99 – Corsair
By Armistead Maupin
Hollywood Yield Hard Working
Babylon Strikes By Lee Houck Men Mary Ann has returned to San Francisco
as she tries to get over the breakup
Again- Vol 2 Edited by Shane Allison
Yield is set against a of her marriage after she’d seen her
By Darwin Porter &
contemporary Manhattan Two construction workers husband porking her life coach via
Danforth Prince
thrumming with sex and take their tryst to new Skype. Meanwhile, transsexuals,
violence as seen through heights, a couple of stalkers, dogs, love, age and death
Carrying on in the great
the eyes of Simon – a horny tree-trimmers set greet her as she tries to put her life
tradition of Hollywood
20-something part-time loins ablaze and there’s back together with a little help from her
gossip, sleaze and
hustler with a loyal an erotic twist the tale friends.
innuendo here’s another
collection of sin city’s following. As he grows of ‘Blondie Locks and
increasingly involved with the Three Bears’. In this If you’ve never read an Armistead
guilty pleasures. The
a gorgeous client he has collection it isn’t just the Maupin book before this is a great start,
wildly enjoyable and
to try and navigate a path hats that are hard as the mainly because it will encourage you
monumentally exhaustive
to fulfilment in a city where sexy hunks do whatever it to go back to his original Tales of the
anthology of sins, foibles,
love and honesty seem to takes to get the job done. City novels and get engrossed in the
sexual adventures and
be a rare commodity. lives of the folk who lived at 28 Barbary
who knows what else is
£10.99 – Cleis Press Lane. This book neatly ties up all the
complete with hundreds
£10.99 – Kensington loose ends and completes the journey
of photographs – all
first started back in 1978 - a time when
guaranteed to raise a few
the gay perspective in San Francisco
eyebrows.
loomed large in world literature – thanks
to this series of novels. Doubleday
£19.99 – Blood Moon
Productions

52 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

UNTITLED #
By Ross Watson
Art connoisseurs will immediately
recognize the inclusion of details or
entire compositions excerpted from
well-known masterworks of Western
European painting. Iconic works
by such art historical luminaries as
Vermeer, Caravaggio and others
appear regularly in Watson’s oeuvre.
Watson’s models, mostly dressed in
twenty-first century attire, are usually
depicted as if standing in front of these
paintings, or in several instances,
cleverly integrated into the Old Master
compositions themselves. But these
well-known paintings do not simply
serve as decorative backdrops for
his young male models. By removing
these esteemed works from their
normal milieu—museums and art
books—Watson bestows upon them
a fresh and sometimes unexpected
perspective, almost as if we were
seeing them anew.
£59.99 – Bruno Gmunder

Fight Club
By Gaz
What makes a man a real man?
With this his first book, UK based
photographer Gaz proves that
this question does not worry him
at all—his models are doubtlessly
everything a man wants to be. They
have muscled bodies and they stare
at you. Drops of sweat, special
light contrasts and the language
of the bodies, which doesn’t speak
of compromise—these are the
significant attributes of the art of Gaz.
His hunks are incredibly impressive
and it takes a man with guts to
withstand eye contact with them.
With Fight Club he created a first
class photo book. Athletic, rough and
hunkylicious … let the fight begin!
£34.99 – Bruno Gmunder

Less Man Booker,

More Man Fooker
There is a new book award on the scene for 2010 'The
Green Carnation Prize' (formerly 'The Man Fooker
Prize') which is celebrating the best writing, both
fiction and memoir, by gay men published this year in
either hardback or paperback.

We caught up with one of the co-founders and judges, our

very own Simon Savidge who judges along side authors
Paul Magrs and Lesley Cookman, Doctor Who actress and
legend Katy Manning and blogger Nick Campbell, about
how it came about.
“Paul Magrs sent a tweet on the day of the Man Booker
longlist saying… where was an award for gay male writers,
a Man Fooker Prize? A twitterathon started… a prize was
born… judges were chosen…publishers contacted… books
were submitted but the award name changed as some felt
it was too pastiche or controversial… now… here we are.”

Simon goes on. “The long list was announced on

September and featured some of the gay greats such as
Edmund White and Armistead Maupin as well as debut
novels from James Hannaham and Jonathan Kemp plus
authors such as Christopher Fowler and Rupert Smith
who have prolific works but little mainstream recognition. The Green Carnation Prize 2010 Short List
There was quite some debate however on a certain author will be announced on 1st November with the
being missing from the list but unfortunately you can’t winning book being announced on the 1st
please every writer. This prize isn't about the gayest book, December to coincide with World Aids Day.
whatever that is, or the most shocking and sex filled, it’s For more information on the prize, it’s judges,
about the best writing that appeals to a selection of people events and more visit
across the board as long as the authors a gay man it greencarnationprize.wordpress.com
doesn't need a gay story line.”
 sauna
guide

Sauna Pleasure
“I just love saunas.” So says Tom from Birmingham. “I have met
some really fantastic people… people I don’t think I would have
met in any other circumstances.
“A sauna is just a melting pot (and I don’t mean because you get
all hot and sweaty there) but all types of people come and visit.”
Michael from Manchester enthuses. “I’ve made a few friends but
the great thing is, we’re all there for the same thing so a nod or a
shake of the head sorts out things immediately… you don’t have
to wait until the end of the night or you’re pissed before you click
with someone.”
“I was scared the first time I went,” says 19 year-old Trev from
Leeds, “I thought I’d be overwhelmed at first. Thankfully, I was
and it was just what I wanted. Now I love the place and the
attention…. And visit my local sauna when ever I can.

54 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

 Clem in the North-East says: “Straight guys envy the fact that
for a few quid… I can have as much sex as I like, with a host of
different people if I want.”

“I met a guy from my road in a sauna.” Says Mark from South

Wales. “We were both embarrassed at first and then we saw the
funny side. He’s really nice and we got it together in the steam
room, then later in the sauna… and then in a private room”

56 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

advice
The interface between the
protection of the rights of gay
people and protection against
discrimination on the grounds
of religion or belief has

& legal
once again been under the
spotlight with the introduction
of the new Equality Act on 1
October and Pope Benedict’s
condemnation of UK equality
law ahead of his recent state
visit.
The view of Pope
Benedict
Ahead of his recent highly publicised
state visit, Pope Benedict sent a
letter to Catholic Bishops in which
he raised concern that UK equality
legislation had imposed “unjust
limitations on the freedom of religious
communities to act in accordance with
their beliefs.” This apparent call to
arms to the Catholic faithful appears
to conflict directly with the spirit of the
introduction of the Equality Act.
Pope Benedict’s comments, which
also condemn what such legislation
achieves by stating that it “actually
violates natural law”, appears to
suggest that people with strong
religious beliefs should be entitled
to discriminate against gay people,
legally.
The Law
Recent UK legal decisions make it
civil partnerships, lost on appeal, as
did that of Gary McFarlane, a Relate
Counsellor who refused to counsel
gay couples who took part in “acts of
sin”. Both cases involved the demand
for individuals to be allowed to lawfully
discriminate against gay people on the
ground of their own religious belief.
The message from the courts is loud
and clear. The right to practice religion
or belief (or no belief for that matter) is
a fundamental right, as is the right not
to suffer discrimination for doing so.
But in manifesting a belief, individuals
must have consideration for the
equality laws in practice. The law will
not permit discrimination against gay
people, regardless of your beliefs. In
both of the above cases further right
of appeal was refused.
The message the law gives it is
thankfully clear: It will not permit
discrimination against gay people or
against one particular religious group,
and one form of discrimination will not
be permitted to trump another.

40 Years of the oppression of LGBTs - and of everyone

else.”
quite clear that such a stance will
not be tolerated. The case of Lilian
Mark Nolan, Employment Solicitor at
Russell Jones & Walker

Gay Liberation
Ladele, a Christian registrar who was www.rjw.co.uk
In those early days getting coverage in disciplined because of her stance on
the media of any protests on the grounds
of sexuality were pretty difficult. Even
Front huge gatherings of protest and support
were met with indifference in much of the

Talk About SEX?

In the autumn of 1970 a tentative
meeting of 19 people took place at the
London School of Economics to form
the UK version of a movement that
was taking the USA by storm – the Gay
Liberation Front. Born out of the riots
at Stonewall, the GLF in America had
mobilised thousands of gays, lesbians,
transgendered, transsexuals and
interested others to march, make a noise
and complain about the injustices meted
out to homosexuals.
That small group in the UK quickly grew
and one of those at that meeting was a
young Peter Tatchell. As he reported in
a fantastic look back at the history of the
group in the Guardian he said.
“I was an activist in the GLF, aged
19 with long curly hair and living in
Shepherd's Bush with my 16-year old
boyfriend, Peter Smith. I was student.
He was a budding jazz guitarist. The age
of consent for gay relationships was, at
the time, 21. Our love was criminal and
we were both at risk of imprisonment.
We didn't give a damn. We despised and
defied the law.”
He went on to say. “GLF espoused a
non-violent revolution in cultural values
and attitudes. It questioned marriage, the
nuclear family, monogamy and patriarchy
- as well as the wars in Vietnam and
Ireland. Although against homophobic
discrimination, GLF's main aim was
never equality within the status quo. We
saw society as fundamentally unjust
and sought to change it, to end the
main press and television but the fight
continued.
“We queers subverted this conventional
gender system.” Peter Tatchell recalls
why the straight majority found GLF
threatening. “Gay men love other
men and many of us are deemed
inadequately macho. Lesbians love other
women and tend to be less passive and
dependent on men than most of their
heterosexual sisters. Queer males don't
have to sexually subjugate women and
female queers have no need for men to
fulfil their erotic and emotional needs.”
Since those heady early days the work of
GLF has spawned groups like Stonewall
and Outrage! Despite there still being
many inequalities remaining in the UK,
we have made significant progress in
gaining some ‘gay rights’. It’s a term that
many people object to, usually because
they are already privileged enough not
to have to contend to a day-in day-out
barrage of discrimination or abuse but
GLF, back in 1970 sowed the seed of
defiance, non-acceptance and change
that is being carried on to this day 40
years later.
Well done to those early pioneers… our
thanks for starting the struggle…you did
good.
For Peter Tatchell’s full article go to:
www.guardian.co.uk/
commentisfree/2010/oct/12/gay-
liberation-front-social-revolution
bedroom, again meaning guys stay
silent about what gives them their
 Having better sex is as easy as kicks, or unable to say when there are
opening your mouth – to tell your things they don’t want to do that may
partner what you’re looking for. So why even put them at risk of HIV or other
do some of us find that so tricky? FS STIs.
magazine from GMFA, the gay men’s   
health charity, looks at why in the latest For advice on improving your self-
issue… confidence and keeping sex safe,
  see the full article “Can we talk about
“I’ve had sex with a few guys, but I sex?” in FS magazine, issue 120. It’s
never really know how to say what I available for free in gay venues and
want,” says Patrick, 19, from London. GUM clinics across the UK or can be
“I’ll be thinking, ‘I’m supposed to be viewed at www.gmfa.org.uk/fsnation 
 
enjoying myself’ but I lie there thinking;
‘Hurry up and get it over with.’ The last
guy I was with was out of my flat like
a shot as soon as morning came and
I lay in bed feeling used and stupid. I
can’t work out what’s wrong with me.”
 
Dr Tara Few, a sex and relationships
expert, says Patrick’s experience is
perfectly normal. “Many people lack
sexual confidence because we receive
very little advice on how to talk about
sex. The model of sex that is taught
is largely heterosexual, and questions
about sexual pleasure are not seen as
important in an educational context.”
All those sex education lessons at
school clearly have a lot to answer
for. The result is that we often end up
feeling sex should happen naturally,
without needing to say what we want. A
lack of self-confidence in life translates
to a lack of sexual confidence in the

58 BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM

 history
repeating
itself
By Paul Garrett
I took my 18yo boyfriend to a new
club opening in a nearby town. I'm
28, good-looking, rich, confident
and, modesty aside, thought we
made a fantastic looking couple…
healthy, successful, confident and,
even if I do say so myself, beautiful.
He's slim, young, handsome and
has the cutest bum in the world. A
bum that he shows off to perfection
by the clothes he wears and which
is confirmed by the appreciative
looks he always receives. Men and
women, boys and girls, he seems to
attract the attention from every body
where ever he goes. I love it when
all the guys stare at his butt knowing
that they stand no chance of going
there. I remember, not too many
years ago, when it was my hot little
butt that got all the stares however, I
didn't mind as this boy's ass, in every
way, was all mine.
I’d claimed it on our second date
back at my apartment where I’d
taken his offered virginity and
from that moment on… just about
every spare moment since… we’ve
shagged like rabbits. He loves sex
and so do I. At night when I’m not
screwing him I sleep with my dick
firmly embedded in his tight little
knothole, his warm, hairless body
fitting cosily against my chest. I can
make slow love to him all night if I’m
that way out, and I often am but a
little wiggle of those wonderfully slim
hips and I know he wants to play as
well. Feeling that firm small body
under my thrusting hips is such a
turn on. He knows how much I like
to hear him as he squeals, moans,
groans and screams with pleasure…
60
he’s no shrinking violet either… as
his naughty suggestions has both
of us experimenting with positions,
toys and clothing. I’ll not go into too
much detail but this mucky little pup
loves to be tied down and used…
starting with his little white boxer
shorts being ripped off and his
bum spanked… and that’s just for
starters.
Meanwhile, the club was packed…
full of gorgeous young guys with
their shirts off and dancing their
sweaty bodies around for anyone
who was interested. We happily
danced close together, kissing and
cuddling, only having eyes for each
other. When a space appeared on
the dance floor I noticed that the
guy next to us, in a deep tongue
embrace with a hot looking stud,
was my very first boyfriend who I'd
lost my virginity to nine years earlier.
God he still looked pretty horny;
tight, manly features that would
have many gay guys dribbling into
their underpants. For the 6 months
we were together there was hardly
a moment when I wasn’t doing just
that as he used me, and taught me,
all I now know. Not surprisingly the
young guy he was with was pretty
tasty as well… not too dissimilar to
how I was all those years ago.
A smile broke out on my boyfriend’s
face as he grabbed the older
man and kissed him. I was angry,
shocked and surprised until he
spoke.
"Hey dad," he said introducing me
over the pounding music, "this is my
boyfriend Paul."
Gay Chat
08715 223 033
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BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010 MAG.BENT.COM
horoscopes
Celebrity Horoscopes and Psychic readings at: www.philipgarcia.com
scorpio
(Oct 24 / Nov 22)
Don’t overlook the chance to improve your financial
position these next few weeks. This will possibly
come through your work. A future promotion or job
offer could depend on simple but original ideas
related to the job in hand. Your social life could get
a boost as November continues as you get more
involved in affairs linked with your colleagues and
work-mates. A generally positive and progressive
month lies ahead of you.
matthew mcconaughey 04/11
CELEBRITY scorpio
24/10 Kevin Kline
25/10 Pablo Picasso
26/10 Hillary Clinton
27/10 Simon Le Bon
28/10 Bill Gates
29/10 Winona Ryder
30/10 Henry Winkler
1/11 Larry Flint
2/11 K D Lang
3/11 Roseanne
4/11 Matthew
McConaughey
5/11 Vivian Leigh
6/11 Sally Field
7/11 Joni Mitchell
Competition Time
Send your entries to:
Competition Time
Bent, APN House
Temple Crescent
Leeds, LS11 8BP
or: comp@bent.com
(inc. name and address)
62
Philip writes detailed monthly travel horoscopes
in addition to his existing content of weekly love
& gay horoscopes, daily horoscopes and weekly
& monthly in depth scripts for phone lines.
Aries (Mar21/Apr20)  congenial task and mixing with some great people.
The moment you get an idea in your head as the
month begins you will want to act on it immediately.
You can be impatient to see results but that’s the
nature of your enthusiasm and you wouldn’t like
to be any other way. You can still find the self-
discipline needed to get results and over the weeks
ahead challenges faced will be easily overcome.
When a joint money issue arises later in November
pause for a moment and weigh up the pros and
cons.
Taurus (Apr21/May21)
Commitments made a wee while ago are still going
on and you will feel happy with the progress of joint
arrangements. A partnership is going well but you
might find yourself secretly longing to be a bit more
wild and adventurous in your loving. Share your
fantasies with your partner and they’re likely to be
intrigued. Later in the month you will take a more
organised and orderly approach to finances, your
love life and business affairs!
Gemini (May22/June21)
The work situation could be unusually quiet.
When there is nothing of interest to claim your
attention, you might start wondering about looking
for something new. You never can tell what good
opportunities might come your way over the weeks
ahead. Your sociable mood will attract some
interesting people your way. Your partner might
start pestering you to take an interest in some of
their ideas later in the month.
Cancer (June22/July23)
The ideas, effort and interest you take in a group
activity will receive a positive and enthusiastic
response from others involved. If you are single, a
platonic relationship will take on a new and more
exciting guise. A quick decision is expected when
you are made an offer mid-November but how do
you know what you’re letting yourself in for? Don’t
let anyone push you into taking action you might
regret.
Leo (July24/Aug23)  what the price of an impulsive move might be. You
You want to please all your family but there is a
8/11 Katherine Hepburn
relative who is behaving as if nothing you do for
9/11 Sisqo
them is enough. Sometimes you have to accept
10/11 Richard Burton
11/11 Leonardo DiCaprio you just can’t please everyone. Over the weeks
12/11 Grace Kelly ahead a senior colleague will let you know how
13/11 Whoopi Goldberg well received your efforts have been. In fact you
14/11 Prince Charles could find yourself feeling a little embarrassed
15/11 Petula Clark about all the attention that comes your way later in
16/11 Lisa Bonet November.
17/11 Rock Hudson
18/11 Owen Wilson
19/11 Calvin Klein Virgo (Aug24/Sept23)
20/11 Bo Derek You will know exactly what to say to attract the
21/11 Bjork interest and support you need from other people
as the month begins. Expect a busy and cheerful
few weeks ahead when you could be engaged in a
Bent Magazine Prize Draw Terms & Conditions 6. Proof of delivery or email will not constitute proof of
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BENT MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2010
You will be on the ball later in the month when
it comes to money. Your instincts will guide you
towards finding the best bargains!
Libra
(Sept24/Oct23) 
There’s plenty going on in your chart to suggest
you could be in for an exciting and entertaining
month ahead. Rather than making set plans you
might prefer to take things as they come. This
will certainly make it easier for you to accept any
spur-of-the-moment offers as and when they arise.
Someone’s making changes over the weeks ahead
and the results of their endeavours will inspire you.
The results of a joint project will be far better than
you expected.
Sagittarius (Nov23/Dec21)
You could do with a bit of a change as the month
begins. Even if you don’t go far, providing it is
somewhere new, it will do your emotional and
spiritual health the world of good. Getting involved
in a charitable exercise, over the next few weeks
will make you feel as if you are doing something
different and worthwhile. A loved one is worried
about something that’s being planned for the end of
the year; you would rather let the future take care
of itself.
Capricorn
(Dec22/Jan20) 
Your confident mood and cheerful spirits will bring a
higher note to the days. Expect to see your private
and personal concerns progressing smoothly
over the weeks ahead. A new partner’s lively
company will make it almost impossible for you
to worry about anything. Expect to receive some
encouraging news later in the month concerning
new career objectives.
Aquarius
(Jan21/Feb19)
Socially and professionally, people will be seeking
you out for your company. They will also appreciate
any advice or guidance you have to offer over
the weeks ahead. Someone you care for is only
thinking for the moment rather than considering
might persuade them to look before they leap.
The pace will ease as the weeks wear on and you
will find some time to pause and evaluate your
progress.
Pisces
(Feb20/Mar20) 
A romantic surprise awaits you as the month
begins; there will be a united feeling in the air. At
work a marked all-pull-together influence will get
the job done quicker and easier than anyone had
been expecting. If you are single, you could meet
someone soon who you will have a lot of common
with. Be ready to take things slowly. You might be
joining a small group of friends as the month ends
to enjoy a day trip somewhere special.
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